In keeping with its mandate to support and grow Africa’s emerging internet ecosystem, Google recently launched Umbono in South Africa, a tech incubator that will help selected internet or mobile-focused start-up teams transform their ideas into companies. Google hopes that Umbono will  encourage the growth of the South African developer community as well as give support to the country’s tech sector.

How it works

According to Google, For six months, teams will enjoy free office space and bandwidth, in addition to the US$25,000 to $50,000 (ZAR 175,000 to 350,000) in funding and will receive from Umbono’s panel of angel investors and Google. Teams will not only benefit from local connections, but also from the extensive mentorship network of Google experts who can provide guidance on issues ranging from product design and commercialization to legal incorporation and valuation.

To ensure the success of Umbono’s teams, Google is collaborating with the Silicon Cape Initiative and the Bandwidth Barn.

Applications are open to all South African residents and are available till April 15, 2011 for first round applicants. However, the website will continue to host applications for all interested candidates. To learn more and apply, visit the Umbono website at www.google.co.za/umbono.

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