Thembalethu
The Nelson Mandela Bay iHub and the George Municipality have identified synergies between the two institutions' ambitions to support the ICT sector. This has led to the decision to explore the establishment of a pilot George Municipality iHub. The George iHub has been modelled as a Township hub and aimed at providing support to ICT SMMEs in the George Municipal area.
Although the George iHub is modelled as an extension of the Nelson Mandela Bay iHub it is important to also note that its interventions will be tailored to address challenges unique to its target market. The Garden Route already has a strong ICT industry comprised of a diverse network of small one-man companies focusing on a combination of software and hardware development. The programme will focus on growing this base and setting up the George area to be the destination of choice for those seeking ICT and technology services.
Key Service Offerings
Development Space
The establishment of a makerspace in the Thembalethu township ensures that grassroots innovators from the area can gain access to these much-needed resources.
Business Management Tools
These include the Growthwheel tool which is used by the enterprise development officers working together with the entrepreneurs to manage the business goals and milestones. The iHub will also offer a wide range of business templates and financial models to entrepreneurs. These also assist with business planning and conducting feasibility studies on projects.
Makerspace
The establishment of a makerspace in the Thembalethu township ensures that grassroots innovators from the area can gain access to these much-needed resources.
Training Programs
These includes both technical and non-technical training which are tailored to equip the business owners to succeed in the business technology sector.
Coworking Space
This is the modern concept of flexible office infrastructure with includes shared boardrooms, training rooms, recreational facilities and maker space for innovators to access the required infrastructure to develop new technologies.