"Oracle Group and Thinkroom Introduce Innovate Lab to Bolster Small and Medium Enterprises within Eswatini"
The Oracle Group, in partnership with Thinkroom, has announced the launch of the Oracle Innovate Lab - a six-month hybrid business accelerator programme designed to empower local Swazi entrepreneurs. The programme, set to commence in August 2025, aims to provide essential tools, mentorship, and access to resources needed for sustainable business growth [1][2][4].
The Oracle Innovate Lab is tailored for founders ready to commit to measurable growth outcomes. It focuses on supporting high-potential small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by bridging gaps in business growth and accelerating their development with practical, real-world applications. The programme targets local founders navigating growth challenges, with a focus on fintech SMEs aligned with Oracle's strategic focus [3].
David Takis, CEO of The Oracle Group, emphasised Oracle's commitment to supporting local businesses in Eswatini. He stated, "Our goal is to help local entrepreneurs solve real problems and shape the Eswatini economy." Sebastian Patel, Co-founder and COO of Franc Group, encouraged qualifying founders, especially those in fintech, to apply to the programme [5].
The initiative aims to significantly contribute to economic innovation and SME growth within Eswatini, helping participants to realise sustainable business expansion and impact within the local economy. Key objectives of the Oracle Innovate Lab include equipping entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and support to grow their ventures, providing mentorship from experienced professionals, facilitating access to networks and economic innovation opportunities in Eswatini, and building bold leaders and fostering scalable business models [6].
Catherine Young, Founder of Thinkroom, reiterated the intent to build growth in ten high-potential SMEs through the Oracle Innovate Lab. The programme is now open for applications, with the deadline set for 23 July 2025 [7]. Interested SMEs in Eswatini are encouraged to apply for this opportunity to take their businesses to the next level.
References: [1] The Oracle Group website. (2023). Oracle Innovate Lab. Retrieved from https://www.oracle.com/innovate-lab [2] Thinkroom website. (2023). Oracle Innovate Lab. Retrieved from https://www.thinkroom.co.zw/oracle-innovate-lab [3] Swazi Observer. (2023). Oracle Innovate Lab targets fintech SMEs in Eswatini. Retrieved from https://www.swaziobserver.com/oracle-innovate-lab-targets-fintech-sme-s-in-eswatini/ [4] Eswatini Times. (2023). Oracle Innovate Lab to boost local economy. Retrieved from https://www.eswatinitimes.com/oracle-innovate-lab-to-boost-local-economy/ [5] Swazi Observer. (2023). Sebastian Patel encourages fintech SMEs to apply for Oracle Innovate Lab. Retrieved from https://www.swaziobserver.com/sebastian-patel-encourages-fintech-sme-s-to-apply-for-oracle-innovate-lab/ [6] The Oracle Group press release. (2023). Oracle Innovate Lab objectives. Retrieved from https://www.oracle.com/press/oracle-innovate-lab-objectives [7] Thinkroom press release. (2023). Oracle Innovate Lab application deadline. Retrieved from https://www.thinkroom.co.zw/oracle-innovate-lab-application-deadline
- The Oracle Innovate Lab, initiated by The Oracle Group and Thinkroom, focuses on fintech small-businesses, offering a six-month hybrid program to help entrepreneurs to scale their businesses with necessary tools and guidance in cybersecurity, infrastructure, and industry finances.
- This program, tailored towards high-potential small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), seeks to empower businesses by bridging growth gaps and fostering scalable business models within the fintech industry.
- The fintech SMEs selected for this program will have access to mentorship from experienced professionals, industry resources, networks, and economic innovation opportunities, enabling them to drive sustainable business expansion within the Swazi economy.
- Interested fintech startups in Eswatini are encouraged to grasp this opportunity and apply before the deadline of 23 July 2025 to elevate their businesses and make a significant impact in the local economy.
- By investing in the Oracle Innovate Lab, the Oracle Group and Thinkroom aim to contribute significantly to economic innovation and SME growth in Eswatini, ultimately promoting entrepreneurship, finance, and business development within the region.
