The Township Digital Market Access Programme (TDMA), launched by 22 On Sloane in partnership with the UK‑South Africa Tech Hub and W&RSETA, aims to onboard and empower township-based SMMEs onto leading e‑commerce platforms.
The application deadline is 1 August 2025, making this a critical opportunity for growth-oriented township businesses.
Programme Goals & Strategic Context
TDMA’s mission is to tackle the digital exclusion faced by small businesses in townships, particularly in Gauteng, and boost their market access and sustainability:
- Onboard up to 150 product-based SMMEs onto platforms like Takealot, Makro Marketplace, Kasi D, Spaza Eats, and others.
- Provide digital literacy, branding, marketing support, and financial tools to help businesses scale.
- Strengthen township economies by bridging the digital economy gap, fostering sustainable growth beyond local physical limitations.
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Who Qualifies & Benefits at a Glance
Eligibility Criteria
- Operate in Gauteng township areas such as Soweto, Diepsloot, Tembisa, Hammanskraal, or Soshanguve.
- Must be a product-based business in operation for at least one year with verifiable sales.
- Provide proof of address, certified IDs, product portfolio, business profile, and recent bank statements.
Benefits Provided
- E‑commerce onboarding to platforms like Takealot, Makro Marketplace, Spaza Eats, Kasi D, Bob Shop.
- Digital branding support, including social media presence, product photography, and packaging guidance.
- Access to inventory and financial management tools, as well as ongoing mentorship and support.
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Key Dates & Application Timeline
| Phase | Date / Deadline |
|---|---|
| Launch of TDMA Version 2 | 4 July 2025 |
| Application Window Opens | 4 July 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 1 August 2025 |
| Selection & Onboarding Phase | Aug–Sep 2025 |
| Training & Mentorship | Sep–Nov 2025 |
| E‑commerce Listing Completion | Nov–Dec 2025 |
How to Apply & Program Process
- Submit your application via the official TDMA portal (linked from 22 On Sloane or UK‑SA Tech Hub).
- Attach required documentation: proof of address, ID, business profile, bank statements, and product images.
- Undergo digital literacy training and branding workshop upon selection.
- Proceed through mentorship sessions, platform onboarding, and live listing of products.
- Ongoing support and performance tracking post-onboarding.
All applicants will receive access to digital capacity sites and training modules tailored to township business needs.
Expected Impact & Performance Metrics
- Drive digital inclusion among underserved entrepreneurs.
- Expand e‑commerce participation beyond urban centres into township economies.
- Enhance sustainability via improved branding, logistics, and market exposure.
- Foster longer-term business growth and job creation in line with national economic priorities.
Challenges & Important Considerations
- High demand but limited slots—only 150 SMMEs will be selected for the 2025 cohort.
- Ensure compliance with documentation; incomplete applications risk disqualification.
- Post-programme success relies on logistics partner availability and consistent digital engagement.
- SMMEs should be prepared to manage inventory, delivery timelines, and online customer service post-onboarding.
Why It Matters
This initiative isn’t just about digital listing—it’s a structured economic inclusion scheme designed to empower township businesses digitally.
By bridging the marketplace divide, TDMA 2025 is helping to nurture resilient, future-ready enterprises in line with South Africa’s broader small business and social upliftment goals.
The Township Digital Market Access Programme, with its 1 August 2025 application deadline, stands as a transformational opportunity for township SMMEs in Gauteng.
Selected enterprises will receive branding support, mentorship, and access to major e-commerce platforms. Eligible product-based businesses should apply now to join the digital economy revolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What platforms will selected SMMEs access under TDMA?
Participants will be onboarded to Takealot, Makro Marketplace, Spaza Eats, Kasi D, Bob Shop, and other curated e‑commerce platforms.
2. Is there any cost to apply or participate in TDMA?
No—application and onboarding are free, funded through support from UK‑SA Tech Hub, W&RSETA, and 22 On Sloane. Selected businesses receive services at no cost.
3. What support do SMMEs receive post-onboarding?
Programme participants benefit from ongoing digital mentorship, access to logistics partners, and performance tracking to ensure sustainable growth in the digital marketplace.