Urban & Township Development Enterprise

Urban & Township Development Enterprise

The South African Youth Business Forum (SAYBF) has established the Urban & Township Development Enterprise to drive inclusive growth and transformation in some of the country’s most dynamic yet underserved communities. Townships and urban centers hold immense potential for entrepreneurship, innovation, and cultural development, but they often face structural barriers such as inadequate infrastructure, limited investment, and restricted market access. This initiative seeks to change that by empowering young entrepreneurs to lead the revitalization of these spaces, creating enterprises that uplift communities while contributing to the broader national economy.

The Urban & Township Development Enterprise focuses on unlocking business opportunities within townships and urban neighborhoods by fostering youth-driven enterprises in key sectors such as retail, real estate, manufacturing, logistics, and services. Through mentorship, training, and access to finance, SAYBF equips young entrepreneurs with the skills and resources to launch and scale businesses that are not only profitable but also community-centered. By encouraging collaboration and partnerships, the program builds thriving ecosystems where local businesses can flourish, employment can grow, and value chains can be developed within these communities rather than outside of them.

At its core, this initiative is about more than business—it is about transformation, empowerment, and restoring dignity to spaces historically excluded from mainstream economic activity. The Urban & Township Development Enterprise envisions a future where townships and urban centers are hubs of innovation, entrepreneurship, and opportunity, led by young people who understand the needs of their communities. By supporting youth as the drivers of development, SAYBF ensures that these areas are not just developed but reimagined into sustainable, vibrant economies that reflect the creativity and resilience of South Africa’s youth.

"Reviving Townships, Building Urban Giants."