Amazon opens funding applications for IT companies in South Africa Subscribe Amazon Web Services (AWS) has opened applications for its Equity Equivalent Investment Program (EEIP) in South Africa. EEIPs are South African Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) approved initiatives, aimed at providing multinational companies an opportunity to take part in local societal development and contribute towards economic advancement and inclusion of black people and black-owned businesses in South Africa. The programis open to qualifying small businesses in South Africa who want to become AWS partners in the public and commercial sectors. “The AWS EEIP is an 18- to 24-month enablement and acceleration program for businesses with a turnover under R50 million,” the group said.