Socionext

Socionext, founded in 2010, is a grassroots social enterprise that equips young people who are not in work, education, or training—mainly in rural and peri-urban areas—with the mindset, tools, and support to start and grow microenterprises. The organization began as an academic entrepreneurship challenge at the University of Amsterdam and has since evolved into the Socionext Entrepreneurship Development Program, a flexible, cost-efficient approach that supports early-stage entrepreneurs from ideation to long-term growth. Participants engage through Start-Up Activators, coaching, and acceleration, receiving guidance tailored to their local context. To date, Socionext has reached over young entrepreneurs across South Africa and Botswana, creating practical opportunities for youth and strengthening communities through sustainable enterprise.