Artisan Venture Hub Launches 'Grow Programme' to Scale Construction-Sector SMMEs

The Artisan Venture Hub launches the Grow Programme, offering business development and funding for qualified construction artisans in South Africa.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 18, 2026, 9:35 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Engineering News

New Opportunity for Construction Artisans to Scale Operations

Qualified artisans in the South African construction sector now have a dedicated pathway to business expansion through the Artisan Venture Hub’s newly launched Grow Programme. Targeting bricklayers, plumbers, electricians, and carpenters between the ages of 18 and 49, the initiative aims to bridge the gap between technical trade proficiency and high-level business management. Applications for the cohort are open until March 31, with the program set to commence in mid-April and conclude in February 2027.

Strict Eligibility Criteria for Established Enterprises

The Grow Programme is specifically designed for owner-managed enterprises that have already moved past the startup phase. To be eligible, businesses must have a minimum of two years of operational history and employ at least two full-time staff members. Furthermore, applicants must demonstrate an annual turnover of between R600,000 and R5 million. The program is currently restricted to businesses operating in Gauteng, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo.

Diagnostic Business Assessments and Personalised Growth Plans

Each participating business will undergo a rigorous diagnostic assessment to identify specific growth constraints and operational inefficiencies. Seth Mulli, the programme director for Allan Gray Makers, emphasized that the goal is to help artisan entrepreneurs refine their systems and strengthen long-term profitability. This process will result in a personalized business development plan tailored to the unique trajectory of each enterprise, focusing on sustainable expansion and job creation.