Mission Next: Microsoft urges SMMEs to apply for digital transformation assistance - 30 March deadline

Black-owned, future-focused SMMEs (small, medium, and micro enterprises) in South Africa have the opportunity to benefit from Microsoft's Mission Next Equity Equivalent & Investment Programme (EEIP).

Microsoft describes the EEIP as its commitment to empower black-owned businesses with "the tools, skills and global-tier technology required for rapid growth and scaling".

Eligible, high-impact entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply before the upcoming deadline of March 30, 2026.

The support being offered is specifically around business development, but focusing primarily on digital enablement, says Lebogang Luvuno, B-BBEE Executive at Microsoft.

"So, it's helping them to understand the digital tools available in walking the journey in making it practical for them and their businesses in order to drive scale."

One of the biggest lessons they've learned in this space and which they've applied to the programme, is that it's not a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to supporting SMMEs, Luvuno says.

"Which is why our programme is very bespoke, looking at exactly where the business is, what they need specifically for their enterprise and what their 'next' is so that we can support them to take that crucial next step to scaling."

Who can apply to the Mission Next EEIP:

• Microsoft is searching for established, black-owned SMMEs who have reached a critical foundation, specifically earning a minimum of R1 million in annual revenue.
• The programme is open to businesses with proven concepts across diverse sectors including farming, manufacturing, mining, retail, e-commerce, AI and more.
• SMMEs are also being targeted in underserved regions like the North West, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and the Eastern Cape to ensure inclusive digital transformation.

Scroll up to the audio player to hear more detail about the Microsoft programme, and click here to apply