mLab, a South African non-profit organization that provides digital skills training and enterprise development programs, has launched applications for its 2026 Digital Enterprise Accelerator. The initiative targets early-stage domestic businesses developing technology applications across sectors such as artificial intelligence, financial technology, agricultural technology and advanced manufacturing.
The accelerator operates from July 2026 through March 2027 using a phased development model. During the initial phase, participating founders access the Conecta virtual incubation platform to complete a 16-week curriculum. This stage requires participants to execute eight operational modules focused on customer analysis and business model refinement. The structure aims to help entrepreneurs transition from early product concepts to viable commercial entities.
Following the virtual incubation period, program administrators will select 20 enterprises to advance to a secondary phase. This stage provides dedicated mentorship and technical development assistance. The cohort also attends sector-focused masterclasses while receiving opportunities to engage with prospective investors and corporate partners. The accelerator concludes in March 2027 with a pitch competition, where the top three enterprises will secure grant funding to finance their subsequent development stages.
The program accepts applications from small and medium-sized enterprises operating in areas including logistics, education technology, healthcare and the green economy. The application window for the 2026 cohort closes on June 29.
“We know there are many entrepreneurs with novel solutions addressing real market needs, but often have limited access to the right support at the right time. Through mDEA, we want to help founders strengthen their businesses, validate their markets and build a clear path towards commercial success," said Nyasha Mate, Programme Manager at mLab.
