Learn how to invest in early-stage startups
The Western Cape has a vibrant startup environment, but with that comes the risks and rewards of investing in early-stage startups. To encourage more South Africans to consider investing in early-stage startups, the Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT) has launched an early-stage startup investment online course in February 2020.
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The DEDAT ‘Introduction to Early-stage Investing’ course is an online programme comprised of seven video modules giving viewers insights into the early-stage investment landscape, along with the investment options available to them.
The modules are complemented by interviews with 20 industry experts from across the startup and investment ecosystem, including venture capital firms, impact investing funds and startup accelerators.
Course participants will explore topics such as sourcing, assessing and making an investment; and learn about regulatory issues affecting investors in South Africa.
Play your part in the startup ecosystem
The course covers the basics of early-stage investing from individual angel deals to Section 12J funds. It’s a primer for those interested in playing a part in the innovative startup space; adventurous investors looking to make high-risk, high-reward investments; and experienced entrepreneurs who would like to share their expertise. It is also vital viewing for startups and business owners to help them understand how various early-stage investment vehicles work and what they can expect from investors.
The content will be available free of charge on DEDAT’s official e-learning platform.
Early-stage funding is consistently raised as an issue that is stifling startup growth. This programme aims to support the sector by assisting interested investors with tools and advice while helping them to discover tech-sector investment opportunities.
This course forms part of a larger programme to support the growth of the Western Cape tech sector and position the province as a leading digital hub. Encouraging early-stage funders will help grow the number of startups in the province who will, in turn, contribute to growing the economy and creating jobs, especially for young people, in the Western Cape.
David Maynier encourages any potential startup investors to take part in the course, make the most of this opportunity and consider investing in the vibrant digital economy that is in the Western Cape.
For more, go to www.westerncape.gov.za/site-page/early-stage-investing-course.
