Cisco, the worldwide leader in networking and security, announced a collaboration with Forge X, an incubation hub, to launch a new EDGE Centre in Johannesburg. Cisco EDGE Centres function as hubs for incubation, innovation and education. EDGE, which stands for “Experience, Design, GTM (Go to Market) and Earn”, provides access to state-of-the-art Cisco connectivity and collaboration technology, as well as resources for training and enablement programs to local businesses.

This will be the eighth Cisco EDGE Centre in South Africa, which is part of Cisco's Country Digital Acceleration program in the country. Among these centres is WomHub, the first female-led incubator in South Africa dedicated to promoting gender equality and supporting women in STEM. Since the inception of the first center in 2019 in South Africa, Cisco EDGE Centers have developed 200 local SMME partnerships and supported in creating 104 jobs.

The new centre will be equipped with Cisco technology, enabling local businesses to connect with global Cisco experts. Additionally, Cisco Networking Academy, one of the world's longest standing IT-skills-to-jobs programs, will offer training opportunities on skills development, digital literacy, and cybersecurity certifications.

“Our shared vision with Forge X is to create a new network of certified Cisco partners offering innovative technology solutions to the South African market. This collaboration reflects our goal of supporting South Africa's digital economy, expected to comprise nearly 20% of GDP by 2028,” explained Conrad Steyn, Country Digital Acceleration Leader at Cisco South Africa, at the launch.

“This collaboration will enable SMMEs to leverage technology to build sustainable businesses and drive local innovation. Our hands-on approach to business development and Cisco’s extensive expertise creates a robust support structure for entrepreneurs and youth. We are building an inclusive ecosystem where digital and entrepreneurial skills foster economic resilience and community growth," enthused Martine Solomon, Executive Director at Forge X.

“This collaboration underscores our commitment to fostering an inclusive digital future by driving innovation and enabling job creation within South Africa’s dynamic technology landscape. With AI emerging as a crucial driver of economic transformation, it is vital to equip SMMEs with the skills, tools, and knowledge required to harness its potential. By empowering these businesses, we not only accelerate their growth but also contribute to sustainable income generation and long-term economic resilience in the country,” added Smangele Nkosi, Country Leader at Cisco South Africa.

Cisco’s CDA program collaborates with government and private sector leaders around the world to build sustainable, secure, and inclusive innovation ecosystems powered by ethical and transformative technology solutions. With more than 1,600 active or completed projects in 50 countries, it is unlocking new value for participating countries, their industries, and their residents. 

A key pillar to the CDA program is digital skills development in collaboration with Cisco Networking Academy. Since the inception of Cisco Networking Academy in South Africa in 1998, more than 411,000 students have been trained, including 154,000 in Cisco’s 2024 fiscal year alone, 61% of whom were female. To learn more: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/about/country-digital-acceleration.html