Our ER insights focus on how entrepreneurs across South Africa and the globe are adopting AI tools like ChatGPT to start, scale, and sustain their ventures. Discover what’s driving adoption, what’s holding it back, and how Virtue ESD supports informed innovation.

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Entrepreneurial Research (ER) is a strategic initiative by Virtue ESD to understand how generative AI is reshaping entrepreneurship in South Africa and beyond. Through local and global studies, we uncover:

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Key Research Highlights:

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• 60%+ of South African workers use generative AI; 21% integrate it daily

• ChatGPT adoption boosts self-efficacy and startup confidence, especially among youth and early-stage entrepreneurs

• Technostress and skills gaps are key barriers to meaningful integration

• Structured training, mentorship, and AI-supported business planning are critical success factors

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Global Lens:

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• In Kenya, AI mentorship increased revenue by 15% among top-performing entrepreneurs

• India, France, and UAE are using AI to transform startups through smart policy and incubation hubs

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What We’re Doing:

Virtue ESD uses these insights to guide programme development, ensuring our support systems match real-world needs. We’re focused on empowering businesses with knowledge, digital confidence, and community support.