Funding is earned, not applied for on day one.
Every I-RED participant completes our six-month incubation programme before becoming eligible to borrow capital from our trusted partners — to establish, grow, or scale their business. This ensures that when capital arrives, the business is actually ready to use it.
Six months in, then funding introductions.
- 1Register
Sign up for the next 12-week I-RED intake.
- 2Train (12 weeks)
Complete the blended learning curriculum — the 12 P's of retail.
- 3Incubate (6 months total)
Practical exposure with established retailers and continuous mentoring.
- 4Graduate & connect
Investment-ready graduates are introduced to lenders and investors.
Support that continues after graduation
- • Assistance in accessing Point-of-Sale (POS) systems and digital payment solutions
- • Business development guidance
- • Access to supplier networks
- • Opportunities to connect with mentors and industry experts
From trained entrepreneur to investment-ready business
Entrepreneurs who successfully complete the IRED programme and demonstrate sound business practices become eligible to be introduced to potential lenders, investors, enterprise development funds and other sources of business finance. This ensures capital flows to businesses with the skills, systems and discipline to use it effectively.
IRED PROGRAM NPC
Registration No. 2026/560804/08
Non-Profit Company (NPC), registered under the Companies Act, South Africa.
Registered and compliant, enabling transparent partnership with funders and stakeholders.