The Allan Gray Makers Startup Academy 2026 opens a structured pathway for artisans ready to transform practical skills into thriving businesses. Designed for tradespeople in bricklaying, carpentry, electrical, and plumbing, the programme runs over eight months and combines entrepreneurship training with hands-on business support. Unlike a one-off workshop, this is a long-term incubation process built for artisans who want to operate professionally and grow with confidence.
The Startup Academy forms part of the Allan Gray Makers initiative, responding to a common challenge: while many skilled artisans excel technically, business knowledge, planning, and systems often lag behind. The Academy bridges this gap by teaching participants how to build, manage, and grow a viable enterprise.
What is the Allan Gray Makers Startup Academy 2026?
The Startup Academy is an eight-month incubation programme for aspiring artisan entrepreneurs. It supports individuals who want to establish new businesses in the construction and technical trades. Participants gain structured entrepreneurship training while applying business principles directly to their own ventures.
The programme emphasizes long-term sustainability, teaching planning, accountability, and strategic decision-making. Artisans learn not just theory but practical skills for running a professional business.
Who Should Apply
This programme is designed for artisans who want more than short-term or informal work. Ideal participants:
- See themselves as business owners, not just tradespeople.
- Work independently or take on small, informal projects.
- Already earn income but struggle with pricing, planning, or growth.
The Academy equips artisans to register businesses, manage clients, handle finances responsibly, and create repeatable workflows. It does not teach trade skills, applicants should already have practical experience in their chosen field.
Trades Supported
The programme focuses on four core trades:
1. Bricklaying
Supports construction and masonry artisans with skills in costing, project management, and client communication.
2. Carpentry
Helps carpenters structure services, price projects accurately, and manage materials and timelines efficiently.
3. Electrical
Equips electricians with business knowledge for compliance, planning, and sustainable service delivery.
4. Plumbing
Guides plumbers in business systems, customer management, and operational planning for long-term growth.
The Academy tailors support to each trade, recognizing the unique challenges linked to materials, labor, compliance, and client expectations.
What the 8-Month Programme Offers
Over eight months, participants develop their business steadily and thoughtfully. Key features include:
- Entrepreneurship training on business fundamentals, operations, and financial awareness.
- Mentorship to support decision-making, accountability, and consistency.
- Practical application, where participants work on real business problems and receive structured feedback.
The structured approach encourages artisans to build businesses that last, rather than rely on ad-hoc or informal work.
Learn more: Why a Trade Apprenticeship Could Be Your Game-Changer
Skills and Business Knowledge You Will Gain
Participants leave the programme with strong practical business capabilities:
- Pricing, budgeting, and cash flow management
- Realistic work planning and time management
- Customer engagement and professional communication
- Negotiation skills and confidence in decision-making
- Compliance knowledge and understanding of trade-related systems
Application Process
The application process has three steps:
- Apply to the Startup Academy
Submit your application online through the official Allan Gray Makers platform. - Complete a short questionnaire
Shortlisted applicants answer questions assessing entrepreneurial readiness and commitment. - Attend an interview
Selected candidates discuss their background, motivation, and goals to ensure alignment with the programme.
Important Dates
Applications close on 30 January 2026 at 17:00. Late submissions will not be considered, so early preparation is essential.
Why Artisan Entrepreneurs Should Apply
The Allan Gray Makers Startup Academy is more than training, it offers structure, discipline, and long-term support. Many artisan businesses fail due to weak planning rather than lack of skill. This programme equips participants with:
- Clear business direction
- Stronger decision-making
- Greater confidence in operating professionally
For bricklayers, carpenters, electricians, and plumbers who want to build purposeful, sustainable businesses, the Allan Gray Makers Startup Academy 2026 is an opportunity not to miss.
