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

"NBI helped us to deal with business challenges, they mentored and trained us on how to operate our business and create jobs for students who are helping [our business] grow. They also assisted in paying for our business container, which made a big difference for us."
Jabu Mathe

Jabu Mathe

Managing Director: Sjeba Pro Electrical

"Our business focuses on vegetation, landscaping and forestry. Being part of the NBI Programme has been helpful. It has taught us about the importance of compliance as a business and has enable us to unemployed youth with skills so that they can be able to provide for their families."
Kgomotso Letsele

Kgomotso Letsele

Director: Ghetto Rose

"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

"We have been able to expand our operation, purchase new equipment, and hire additional staff. This has not only improved our operational efficiency but also allowed us to increase our production capacity, and enter new markets.Your support has enabled us to create new jobs,contributing to the local economy by providing opportunities for our community."
Thandiwe Jijane

Thandiwe Jijane

Director:MTP Technologies

"NBI helped us to deal with business challenges, they mentored and trained us on how to operate our business and create jobs for students who are helping [our business] grow. They also assisted in paying for our business container, which made a big difference for us."
Jabu Mathe

Jabu Mathe

Managing Director: Sjeba Pro Electrical

"Our business focuses on vegetation, landscaping and forestry. Being part of the NBI Programme has been helpful. It has taught us about the importance of compliance as a business and has enable us to unemployed youth with skills so that they can be able to provide for their families."
Kgomotso Letsele

Kgomotso Letsele

Director: Ghetto Rose

"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

"We have been able to expand our operation, purchase new equipment, and hire additional staff. This has not only improved our operational efficiency but also allowed us to increase our production capacity, and enter new markets.Your support has enabled us to create new jobs,contributing to the local economy by providing opportunities for our community."
Thandiwe Jijane

Thandiwe Jijane

Director:MTP Technologies

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."

Partners & Supporters

Our Partners & Supporters

Working together to build a stronger, more inclusive IRM sector across South Africa.

GIZ logo
SECO logo
European Union logo
DHET logo
NBI logo