The fellowships will provide student entrepreneurs from leading South African universities the opportunity to develop their businesses at one of Ryerson’s incubators including one of Canada’s largest incubators, the Digital Media Zone.
Ryerson University president and vice-chancellor Sheldon Levy made the announcement at Wits University as part of a multi-day tour of South Africa where he met with government and university officials.
“The future of the global economy is in the hands of our young people,” said Levy.
“Ryerson is proud to partner with South African universities in promoting entrepreneurial innovation and great ideas.”
The fellowships will be offered to student entrepreneurs from four universities; three from the University of Witwatersrand, two from the University of Johannesburg, two from Stellenbosch University and one from the University of Venda.
Within the incubators, or zones as they are called, the entrepreneurs will receive mentorship, business development advice and gain valuable international experience.
Prof. Adam Habib, Wits vice chancellor and principal, said collaborations with universities such as Ryerson were of the utmost importance for the development of future entrepreneurs and leaders on the African continent.
“Entrepreneurs play a pivotal role in the social and economic development of South Africa and Africa,” said Habib.
“It is imperative for higher education institutions to play their part in nurturing, training and developing future entrepreneurs and we welcome the three Ryerson fellowships for aspiring entrepreneurs.”
As part of the fellowships at Ryerson, the South African entrepreneurs will be provided with transportation, accommodation and a three-to-four-month placement at a Ryerson zone where they will receive office space, mentorship, networking and collaboration opportunities with other startup companies.
