Innovation Hub Programme — FAQ

Answers to common questions about the Lebone Marang and Summer Innovation Hub Programme, including how it works, what participants gain, and what is expected from applicants.

Integrated Digital Skills, Entrepreneurship & Work Readiness Programme

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Integrated Digital Skills, Entrepreneurship & Work Readiness Programme Application

Innovation Hub Programme FAQ

About Lebone Marang and Summer

Lebone Marang and Summer is a South African technology and innovation organisation focused on equipping young IT graduates with the skills, experience, and entrepreneurial capability needed to compete in the global digital economy.

Our vision is to build a sustainable pipeline of globally competitive African tech entrepreneurs who can lead the continent’s digital transformation.

Our mission is to tackle youth unemployment by equipping IT graduates with advanced technology skills, entrepreneurial capability, and real-world exposure to the global digital economy.

Lebone Marang and Summer operates from South Africa and works with partners across the public sector, private sector, and technology ecosystem.

About the Training Programme
The Innovation Hub Training Programme is a structured technology and entrepreneurship programme designed for IT graduates. It combines advanced technical training, real-world project experience, mentorship, and exposure to the global digital economy.
The programme is open to IT graduates and young professionals with a background in technology who are looking to develop advanced skills and entrepreneurial capability.
The programme is intensive and requires a strong commitment of time. Participants will spend substantial time on training, research, project work, and collaboration.
The full programme may run for up to 24 months depending on project cycles, participant progress, and industry collaborations. Phase 1: Foundational training and orientation. Phase 2: Applied project work and research. Phase 3: Technology development and commercialisation.
Programme Benefits
Participants gain access to: high-value training in emerging technology fields, professional development and mentorship, real-world project experience, opportunities to participate in innovation and technology development, and potential to earn from commercialised technology products and ventures.
The programme is designed to strengthen both employability and entrepreneurial prospects. Participants leave with project portfolios, industry exposure, and professional references that make them more competitive in the job market.
Yes. Mentorship is a core component of the programme. Participants are guided by experienced professionals and technology leaders throughout their time in the programme.
Yes. Participants will analyse existing systems, propose digital improvements, and develop technology solutions that address real-world challenges and improve service delivery.
Stipends and Financial Support

At the start of the programme, stipends are not guaranteed while the initiative is in its pilot phase. The programme focuses on providing participants with high-value opportunities that build long-term career and entrepreneurial prospects. For many participants, the programme functions as a career launch platform offering experience, networks, and innovation opportunities that are often difficult to access early in a career.

Yes. The organisation is actively pursuing funding partnerships and industry collaborations that will enable stipend support for participants as the programme grows and matures.

Yes. Participants may earn income through revenue generated from commercialised technology products, startup ventures developed through programme projects, and technology consulting work linked to programme initiatives.

Research & Global Opportunities
Participants will have access to current global IT research, digital transformation insights, and technical documentation and learning resources. Opportunities to contribute to and publish research may develop as participants progress through the programme.
The programme is working towards international exchange and collaboration opportunities. These exchanges will allow participants to observe global innovation ecosystems and engage with international technology leaders.
Application & Participation
Applications are submitted through the Lebone Marang and Summer website. Interested candidates should complete the application form and submit the required supporting documents.
Certified copy of your IT qualification. Curriculum vitae (CV). South African ID or valid identification document. Motivation letter or statement of interest.
Accepted participants will be required to sign a participation agreement outlining the expectations, commitments, and terms of engagement for the programme. This document will be provided prior to onboarding.
Intellectual Property
Technology solutions developed in the programme may involve shared intellectual property arrangements depending on the project structure and partners involved. Participants may benefit from revenue generated from innovations they helped develop. Full details are outlined in the participation agreement.
Accreditation & Recognition

The programme includes structured training and professional development aligned with industry and skills development frameworks. Accreditation partnerships with SETA and training authorities are being developed as the programme grows.

Have a question not covered here? Reach out to the programme team directly.