The Allan Gray Makers StartUp Academy 2026 is an eight-month incubation programme designed to offer entrepreneurship training and comprehensive support for aspiring artisan entrepreneurs. The initiative focuses on individuals aiming to establish new businesses within the bricklaying, carpentry, electrical, and plumbing trades, providing them with the necessary tools and business knowledge.
Program Overview
- Program Name: The Allan Gray Makers StartUp Academy 2026
- Duration: 8 months
- Program Start Date: Mid-April 2026
- Objective: To support the establishment of new technical businesses through targeted training and support.
- Target Trades: Bricklaying, Carpentry, Electrical, and Plumbing.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Employment Status: Must be unemployed or self-employed, and not studying full-time.
- Trade Experience: Applicants must meet one of the following criteria in bricklaying, carpentry, electrical, or plumbing: be a qualified artisan with a trade test; have at least 3 years of work experience and be ready to take the trade test; or hold an N2 Certificate with at least 3 years of work experience.
- Business Stage: The program accepts applicants at the pre-start, pre-trading, or pre-profit stages of their business.
- Entrepreneurial Experience: No prior entrepreneurship experience is required, but a strong interest in starting a business is essential.
- Inclusivity: The programme is open to all genders and encourages applications from a diverse and inclusive group of participants.
Application Process
- Application Period: Applications open on 3 November and close on 30 January 2026 at 17:00 SAST.
- Step 1: Check Eligibility: Candidates must first confirm they meet all the specified requirements.
- Step 2: Prepare Documents: Applicants need to gather the following documents: N2 Certificate, National Technical Diploma, or Trade Test if applicable; Proof of work experience or service letters; Certified Copy of ID; A National Senior Certificate is considered advantageous; and a valid and operational email address is mandatory for the application.
- Step 3: Submit Application: Complete and submit the application form online.
- Step 4: Complete Assessment: Shortlisted candidates will be sent a link via email to complete a questionnaire assessing their entrepreneurial readiness.
- Step 5: Attend Interview: Further shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview to discuss their background, motivation, and entrepreneurial goals.
- Step 6: Begin Onboarding: Successful participants will commence the 8-month incubation programme.
Participant Support
- Financial Support: Participants will receive a transport allowance of R3000 per month to assist with costs associated with attending the programme.
Further Information
- Inquiries: For additional inquiries, interested parties can make contact through the organization's Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn pages, or via email at info@allangraymakers.co.za.
This initiative presents a structured pathway for skilled artisans to transition into entrepreneurship, offering dedicated training and resources to help launch and grow their technical businesses in a competitive market.