Impact Your World
Are you a passionate entrepreneur with a burning desire to make a positive impact on the world? If so, USSAVI is calling you.
USSAVI Demo Day 2026
Our Demo Day is on 1st October 2026 at 16h00 SAST; 10h00 Eastern Daylight Time
The online event will be streamed live on YouTube and for teams, judges, mentors and VIP guests, there will be a Zoom link.
About Us
The United States—South Africa Virtual Incubator (USSAVI) is a dynamic entrepreneurship development initiative that connects bright student innovators from both nations.
Launched through a cross-border collaboration of advisors, institutions, and innovation leaders, the program was developed in partnership with Mashauri and Guilford College under the U.S.–South Africa Higher Education Network. It has had program support from the U.S. Embassy in South Africa.
Together, we are building the next generation of change-makers.
Our Mission
USSAVI’s mission is to empower young South African and American entrepreneurs to develop innovative solutions to pressing social and economic challenges. Through a series of fully immersive entrepreneurial program, we provide students with the skills, resources, and mentorship they need to launch and sustain their ventures.
Our Impact
We are running the 4th instance of USSAVI in 2026, and the numbers of students continues to skyrocket. Teams of students from across universities build innovative social ventures, addressing a range of challenges such as poverty, education, and healthcare.
2000+ Applicants
1000 + Students
37 Teams (2025)
Our Program
Each year, USSAVI selects South African students registered at a South African University to participate in our six-month program. These students are divided into multi-regional teams, each working on a unique social venture. Throughout the program, students receive intensive training in entrepreneurship, design thinking, and social impact. They also have the opportunity to connect with mentors, investors, and potential partners from both South Africa and the United States.
“If you want to start a business but don’t know anything about entrepreneurship, this is the program to be in.”
Busisiwe Promise Mnisi
University of the Western Cape
“USSAVI taught me how to turn a small idea into a business which will impact people’s lives. I am forever grateful for this opportunity.”
Zizipho Dweba
University of the Western Cape
“The program is best in teaching the realities involved in startup. It helps in testing ideas with little capital.”
Freedom Duma
University of Zululand