About IRM Initiative

The Installation, Repair and Maintenance (IRM) Initiative, an Initiative by the National Business Initiative (NBI) is a coordinated effort to drive inclusive economic development by strengthening local enterprises and developing critical skills, we have developed digital tools to guide you on your journey.

Find Your Path About IRM

What Are You Looking For?

Tell us about yourself and we'll guide you to the right resources

Artisans and Technicians

I'm an Artisan or Technician

Looking to upgrade my skills, get certified, or find better job opportunities in installation, repair and maintenance fields.

Find Skills & Training
SMEs and Entrepreneurs

I'm an SME or Entrepreneur

Seeking business development support, market opportunities, or partnerships to grow my IRM enterprise.

Grow My Business
TVET Students and Graduates

I'm a TVET Student or Graduate

Looking for workplace experience, further training opportunities, or guidance on starting my career in technical fields.

Explore Career Paths
Industry and Government

I'm from Industry or Government

Interested in partnering, sourcing services, or supporting the development of the IRM ecosystem.

Partner With Us

EMPOWERING THE FUTURE OF SOUTH AFRICA'S IRM SECTORS

The National Business Initiative, Installation, Repair, and Maintenance (IRM) Initiative is a coordinated effort to drive inclusive economic development by strengthening local enterprises and developing critical skills, with a strong focus on the Green and Circular Economy. Our digital ecosystem connects learners, artisans, SMEs, and industry partners to the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to thrive.

Our Initiative in Action

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Our Digital Platforms

THE SKILLS & LEARNING PLATFORM:

irmlearning.co.za
Features Description
Industry-aligned Courses TVET-aligned courses in high-demand trades.
Blended Learning Mix of online and in-person learning resources.
Certifications Achieve recognised certification.
Explore Platform

THE SMME & OPPORTUNITY HUB:

portal.irmhub.org.za
Features Description
SME Support Tools, mentorship, and resources for business growth.
Market Linkages View and bid on IRM-related contracts.
Partnership Building Network with clients and industry stakeholders.
Visit Portal

THE GREEN ECONOMY TOOLKIT:

greeneconomytoolkit.com
Features Description
Green Funding Platform Access information on Green Finance
Green Economy Events Keep up to date with green economy events.
Policy & Compliance Info Updates on green policies and standards.
Explore Platform

Success Stories

Hear from people who have transformed their careers and businesses through the IRM Initiative

"The IRM Learning platform helped me get certified as an electrician. I now have my own small business and employ two other people."
Thabo Mokoena

Thabo Mokoena

Electrician & Business Owner

"Through the IRM Hub, I connected with major contractors and grew my plumbing business from 3 to 15 employees in just two years."
Nomsa Dlamini

Nomsa Dlamini

Plumbing Enterprise Owner

"I must say it has been a great journey with NBI, NBI has helped shape my company to the right direction. The workshops were very fundamental because they taught us about laws and regulations and even opened our eyes to the green economy."
Karabo Modise

Karabo Modise

Director: Wood Dream

"The Green Economy Toolkit helped my company transition to sustainable practices, reducing our energy costs by 40% while attracting environmentally conscious clients."
Kabelo Mthethwa

Kabelo Mthethwa

Sustainability Manager

"The IRM Learning platform helped me get certified as an electrician. I now have my own small business and employ two other people."
Thabo Mokoena

Thabo Mokoena

Electrician & Business Owner

"Through the IRM Hub, I connected with major contractors and grew my plumbing business from 3 to 15 employees in just two years."
Nomsa Dlamini

Nomsa Dlamini

Plumbing Enterprise Owner

"I must say it has been a great journey with NBI, NBI has helped shape my company to the right direction. The workshops were very fundamental because they taught us about laws and regulations and even opened our eyes to the green economy."
Karabo Modise

Karabo Modise

Director: Wood Dream

"The Green Economy Toolkit helped my company transition to sustainable practices, reducing our energy costs by 40% while attracting environmentally conscious clients."
Kabelo Mthethwa

Kabelo Mthethwa

Sustainability Manager

Why the IRM Initiative?

Job Creation
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Job Creation

30,000 IRM graduates in employment or self-employment by 2035
1-2 Jobs created per supported SMME within 18 months
"One of the most powerful ways to boost job creation is to support the growth of SMMEs."
Economic Inclusion
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Economic Inclusion

98.5% SMMEs represent registered businesses in South Africa
4,200 IRM startup businesses to be incubated by 2035
"SMMEs are the economy's room... we must work collectively towards a thriving and equitable South Africa."
Sustainability
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Sustainability

Demand for climate-friendly infrastructure adaptation
Interactive Green Economy Toolkit for businesses
"To ensure a just economic transition to a green economy, we need to create decent work opportunities."
Skills Development
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Skills Development

13 IRM hubs at TVET college campuses
50 IRM skill centers by 2035
"Increasing the pool of people with artisanal skills which are already scarce."