The Hustle Economy Programme was developed in response to ongoing requests from community partners for enterprise development support. It addresses the reality that around 70% of school leavers in Southern and East Africa will work within the informal economy, often managing multiple small ventures to support themselves and their families. Linked to the “Thriving Communities” outcome, the programme focuses on promoting sustainable job creation and small business development, with a strong emphasis on empowering youth and women. Currently, it supports emerging micro-entrepreneurs in the iSimangaliso and Greater Kruger landscapes by strengthening their business skills, capacity, and profitability, with plans to expand across all landscapes and seascapes through the partnership between Wild Impact and &Beyond.
In many rural and township settings, “hustle” means opportunity — a way to earn a living where formal jobs are scarce. The informal or “Hustle Economy” provides livelihoods for one in six South Africans, highlighting the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of Africans who use their skills to sustain themselves as farmers, crafters, artisans, or small business owners. The programme aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1 and 8; No Poverty, and Decent Work and Economic Growth — by working to eradicate poverty and promote inclusive, sustainable economic opportunities for all.