Amazon and South African enterprise advisory firm WomHub have launched a nine-month incubator programme aimed at supporting 35 women-led manufacturing businesses in South Africa to scale sustainable, export-ready enterprises.
The programme, called the Amazon Sustainable Sellers Incubator, will provide selected entrepreneurs with training in circular economy principles, sustainable product design, ethical sourcing, eco-friendly packaging, and environmental impact measurement, alongside core business skills including financial management, marketing, quality control and e-commerce operations.
Participants will also receive mentorship, access to potential grant funding and low-interest financing, and support in setting up and optimising online storefronts through Amazon’s Seller Central platform, including product listings, brand registration, catalogue photography and fulfilment services.
In addition, entrepreneurs will gain access to co-working and innovation spaces in Johannesburg, Cape Town and East London to support collaboration and business development.
Amazon said the initiative is designed to help early-stage businesses scale globally while embedding sustainability into their operations from the outset.
“By empowering South African women entrepreneurs to build businesses rooted in environmental responsibility from day one, we are contributing to businesses’ success and a more sustainable future,” said Robert Koen, Amazon sub-Saharan Africa managing director.
WomHub said the programme reflects a growing convergence between sustainability and commercial viability in Africa’s startup ecosystem.
“Sustainability and profitability can go hand-in-hand,” said Naadiya Moosajee, WomHub co-founder and chief innovation officer. “We are building a new generation of South African brands that compete globally while protecting our planet.”
The initiative comes as global technology and e-commerce firms deepen their investment in Africa’s small business ecosystem, with a growing focus on women-led enterprises and climate-conscious production models.