Johannesburg isn’t just South Africa’s economic engine; it’s also fast becoming its innovation capital. According to the newly released Startup Ecosystem Report 2025, the city has emerged as the top startup hub in the country, with impressive gains in global rankings and strong performance across key growth areas.
Joburg jumped 17 spots globally, landing at 122 in the world and taking the number 1 spot nationally, a clear sign that the city’s blend of ambition, resilience, and urban energy is fuelling something extraordinary.
Investment is on the rise
Johannesburg’s ecosystem is attracting more early-stage funding than ever before. The report highlights a surge in seed-stage investors, new accelerators, and more proactive collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders.
From fast-growing tech hubs in Rosebank and Braamfontein to a vibrant community of problem-solving founders in industries like fintech, edtech, healthtech and logistics, Joburg is where bold ideas are being built into real businesses.
Infrastructure meets opportunity
With organisations like the City of Joburg actively investing in entrepreneurship and startups finding homes in coworking spaces like Workshop17, The Business Exchange and Mesh Club, the city is making room for dreamers and doers.
Johannesburg also scores high for business friendliness and startup experience, showing that local founders are not only thriving, they’re paying it forward with mentorship and investment of their own.
Diverse sectors, deeper impact
What sets Johannesburg apart? It's not just the access to funding or the infrastructure (although those help). It’s the diversity of its people and the very real challenges they’re solving. Think apps that make transport safer, platforms that simplify business compliance, and fintech tools that make financial services accessible to everyone. It’s innovation rooted in reality, and it’s gaining attention.
Johannesburg’s startup success is more than a ranking; it’s a signal that the city is transforming. A healthy entrepreneurial ecosystem means more jobs, more innovation, and a more resilient urban economy. With strong local talent, better access to funding, and a growing culture of innovation, Joburg is shaping the future of business in South Africa and beyond.
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