DIT is a registered non-profit and online network of founders, investors, and ecosystem builders of colour working in South Africa’s tech startup ecosystem. Our network is united by a shared mission to uplift, support, and empower each other to thrive and lead meaningful change.

DIT exists to help build a future where founders, investors, and ecosystem builders of colour have equitable access to knowledge, networks, community, and capital. 

We aim to create an inclusive tech ecosystem that reflects South Africa’s rich diversity.

All DIT members are expected to uphold the following values:

• Give before you take
• Show up as your whole self
• Engage with care Hold your views with openness
• Learn out loud 

We welcome applications from individuals who meet the following criteria:

• You identify as Black, Coloured, or Indian
• You are South African, or your startup operates primarily in South Africa
• You are one of the following: 
• • A high-calibre founder of a high-growth, scalable tech startup with a proven track record of execution (not a consultancy or service provider)
  • An investor in high-growth tech startups
  • A program manager or lead of a tech startup support program.
    

Our goal is to maintain a high-quality network of professionals of colour actively shaping the tech startup ecosystem. Selectivity ensures that members gain meaningful value from the community and that the network delivers strong outcomes for our partners and the broader ecosystem.

No. DIT is not anti-white; it is proudly pro-Black. The South African tech startup ecosystem often marginalises professionals of colour. DIT exists to address this imbalance by creating a space that supports and uplifts these individuals to build, grow, and break through systemic barriers.

As a DIT member, you’ll be surrounded by values-aligned founders who are building boldly. You’ll gain access to tailored resources, practical masterclasses, and meaningful meetups designed to help you grow with intention. Membership also unlocks exclusive perks on tools, events, support programs, and even classic DIT merch to help you extend your runway or treat yourself.

For your startup, DIT connects you to warm investor networks and high-value opportunities that move the needle. We’ll match you with startup support programs that align with your stage and goals—no more wasting time on ones that don’t. You’ll also get access to a directory of vetted service black-owned providers, and a curated kit of business tools and templates to help you build smarter and scale faster.

Partnering with DIT gives your program access to South Africa’s largest vetted network of high-growth Black-founded startups. We help you source quality candidates that align with your program’s goals, saving your team time and ensuring stronger outcomes. Our support spans the full program lifecycle: from shortlisting and founder engagement to demo day planning and investor connections. We also provide feedback on program design to help improve relevance, fairness, and impact.

For confidentiality reasons, we don’t publish member names. However, our members include:

Each application is reviewed individually. Co-founders are welcome to apply, but we require separate submissions for data collection and tracking purposes. Please note: admission is limited to senior founders and organisational leaders (e.g. fund managers, program managers and program leads).

We welcome allies who believe in our mission. Here are a few ways you can partner with us:

• Program Enablement Partner: Support new initiatives that strengthen and de-risk member ventures.
• Event Sponsor: Help expand and enhance our events to create more meaningful moments of learning and connection.
• Community Perks & Advocacy Partner: Offer discounts or perks to our members and help share DIT’s mission across your platforms.
• Network Ambassador: Spread the word through word of mouth or by wearing our merch to help us gain visibility.