Build from where you are.
Riversands I-Hub offers a professional environment and virtual ecosystem, with a range of added-value business services, resources and programs to help grow SMEs.
Our model
Our fluid entrepreneur
-driven approach
ON CAMPUS
A non-prescriptive, semi-structured incubation model that encourages entrepreneurs to be in the driving seat when navigating the Hub’s services and resources.
OFF CAMPUS
In collaboration with our corporate partners we offer blended programming for businesses across South Africa. These programs are either industry specific or subject matter focused.
VIRTUAL
We also offer online programming for off campus businesses. This integrates our growth academy framework.
Viability with potential to grow
51% black ownership is advantageous
Entrepreneurial characteristics
Ratio of benefit to cost and risk
Business aligned to ecosystem model
Commitment to performance and continuous learning
What we look for
Our selection criteria
We seek to drive inclusive economic growth and so we don’t believe in a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach – as such we are continuously looking for SMEs that are the right fit for Riversands I-Hub ecosystem. This means that we are always evaluating businesses against our published selection criteria. We are not a commercial landlord – we do our best to invest our resources in businesses likely to give the best return on investment.
What we look for
Our selection criteria
We don’t believe in a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach – as such we are continuously looking for SMEs that are the right fit for Riversands I-Hub ecosystem. This means that we are always evaluating businesses against our published selection criteria. We are not a commercial landlord – we do our best to invest our resources in businesses likely to give the best return on investment.
Viability with potential to grow
Ratio of benefit to cost and risk
51% black ownership is advantageous
Business aligned to ecosystem model
Entrepreneurial characteristics
Commitment to performance and continuous learning
Our principles
How we work
We want to be transparent, so that you know what to expect before you work with us. Our philosophy is based on a set of principles that explain how we work with entrepreneurs. View our list of principles below. If they seem obvious, then you are probably a good match for us.
Principle 2.
You create your basket of services
Different industries, stages of growth and business models need different things. Work with us to find a mix of services and resources that work for your business.
Principle 3.
Talk to us
We are a community for entrepreneurs. This only works if we talk to each other. That’s how we learn what you need most. We believe in straight talk. Don’t tell us what you think we want to hear, tell us how it is, so we are better equipped to help.
Principle 4.
Real world readiness
Our ecosystem is ‘small business friendly’. But the real world is tough and we can’t take away the pressures that go with growing a sustainable business. You need to build the capabilities and entrench those behaviours that will see your business succeed outside the incubator ecosystem.
Principle 5.
Mastery takes time
No one starts out as a business guru. In our opinion, if you don’t feel overwhelmed at some point, you’re not doing it right! You are on a long journey – you will feel like giving up at some point. But stay curious, keep pushing forward, and embrace learning.
Principle 6.
Entrepreneurship demands sacrifice
Entrepreneurship is not a quick road to riches and making the necessary lifestyle sacrifices now, will be worth it in the end. We invest our time, energy and space in performance-orientated entrepreneurs who are seriously committed to meeting their business obligations, no matter the sacrifice.
Principle 7.
Business failure happens
Businesses can fail. Sadly, the failure rate for small business is high. This doesn’t mean failure can’t be avoided. Or that one business failure is the end of your entrepreneurial journey. Failure is tough, we know, but we will try to help you soften the fall. Sometimes it’s better to fail fast, and get up again.
Principle 1.
It's your business
You are the business owner and it’s up to you to build your business each day. We care about your success, and are happy to give advice, when you ask for it, but ultimately you are free to make up your own mind.
Principle 1.
It's your business
You are the business owner and it’s up to you to build your business each day. We care about your success, and are happy to give advice, when you ask for it, but ultimately you are free to make up your own mind.
Principle 2.
You create your basket of services
Different industries, stages of growth and business models need different things. Work with us to find a mix of services and resources that work for your business.
Principle 3.
Talk to us
We are a community for entrepreneurs. This only works if we talk to each other. That’s how we learn what you need most. We believe in straight talk. Don’t tell us what you think we want to hear, tell us how it is, so we are better equipped to help.
Principle 4.
Real world readiness
Our ecosystem is ‘small business friendly’. But the real world is tough and we can’t take away the pressures that go with growing a sustainable business. You need to build the capabilities and entrench those behaviours that will see your business succeed outside the incubator ecosystem.
Principle 5.
Mastery takes time
No one starts out as a business guru. In our opinion, if you don’t feel overwhelmed at some point, you’re not doing it right! You are on a long journey – you will feel like giving up at some point. But stay curious, keep pushing forward, and embrace learning.
Principle 6.
Entrepreneurship demands sacrifice
Entrepreneurship is not a quick road to riches and making the necessary lifestyle sacrifices now, will be worth it in the end. We invest our time, energy and space in performance-orientated entrepreneurs who are seriously committed to meeting their business obligations, no matter the sacrifice.
Principle 7.
Business failure happens
Businesses can fail. Sadly, the failure rate for small business is high. This doesn’t mean failure can’t be avoided. Or that one business failure is the end of your entrepreneurial journey. Failure is tough, we know, but we will try to help you soften the fall. Sometimes it’s better to fail fast, and get up again.
Application process
Step-by-step
Step 1
Attend a tour
Step 2
Is Riversands I-Hub the right fit for my business?
Step 3
Submit your online application
Step 4
Your application is assessed
Step 5
Attend a panel interview
Step 6
Investment Committee decision