Microsoft South Africa is calling on eligible small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) to apply for the 2025 edition of its Emerging Partner Programme (EPP), a flagship initiative aimed at accelerating business growth, technical capability, and market reach for black-owned ICT companies.
The EPP offers selected SMMEs a comprehensive 24-month support plan that includes business development coaching, skills training, and access to Microsoft’s expansive technology and partner ecosystem. A key component of the program is helping participants attain Microsoft Certifications and achieve Solutions Area Designations – credentials that boost industry credibility and visibility.
“This programme is about transforming today’s SMMEs into tomorrow’s industry leaders,” said Lebogang Luvuno, B-BBEE executive at Microsoft SA. “By identifying, recruiting, and nurturing these businesses, we are investing in resilience, innovation, and inclusive growth for the South African economy.”
The EPP has already shown tangible results. Over the past 18 months, Microsoft trained 88 partner businesses, representing 548 individuals. That investment led to the creation of 107 full-time and 86 part-time jobs, the acquisition of 109 new customers, and an estimated combined revenue growth of R61 million in 2024.
Microsoft’s initiative forms part of its broader Enterprise and Supplier Development strategy. It specifically targets 100% black-owned SMMEs in the ICT sector who aspire to become Microsoft Solutions Partners. There is no cost to join the programme for qualifying businesses.
At the core of the EPP is artificial intelligence. Through tools such as Microsoft 365 Copilot and dedicated AI training, the programme helps businesses improve productivity, streamline operations, and reduce costs.
“Our programme emphasizes the transformative power of AI,” said Luvuno. “We equip SMMEs with tools and training that can dramatically increase efficiency and growth potential. AI is not just a technology – it’s a competitive edge.”
According to Microsoft’s 2025 Work Trend Index, AI-human collaboration is giving rise to “Frontier Firms” – businesses that are reshaping operations and strategy through intelligent agent integration. The report found that 82% of leaders are rethinking core aspects of how they operate, with 81% expecting AI agents to be integrated into their business models within 18 months.
For SMMEs, that represents a major opportunity to level the playing field with larger firms by using AI to bridge resource gaps, democratize expertise, and scale more effectively.
The EPP also provides support in achieving Microsoft Solutions Area Designations, allowing participants to showcase their capabilities and stand out in a competitive digital economy.
“Partners offering services already generate strong revenue through their own offerings,” said Luvuno. “AI is further amplifying that. Our EPP is designed to accelerate this success by giving partners access to a rich, diverse network of opportunities.”
SMMEs are encouraged to apply before the June 15, 2025, deadline. Interested businesses can learn more and submit their applications through the Microsoft EPP website.
By supporting SMMEs, Microsoft aims to empower entrepreneurs, foster innovation in underserved communities, and create long-term economic impact.
“This is about more than technology,” said Luvuno. “It’s about building the next generation of business leaders in South Africa.”
