Renier Kriel: The role of media in growing South Africa's tech ecosystem

South Africa’s startup ecosystem often talks about funding as its biggest challenge, but according to Renier Kriel, founder of The Open Letter, visibility may be just as important. Kriel reflected on how a personal frustration with the lack of meaningful local technology and business coverage led him to launch The Open Letter nearly four years ago. Having previously built and exited a technology agency, he wanted a platform that went beyond funding announcements to explain why businesses matter, what problems they are solving, and where opportunities exist. That philosophy has helped transform The Open Letter from a niche startup newsletter into one of South Africa’s most engaged business and technology media platforms. Today, the publication reaches more than 40,000 readers, including startup founders, corporate executives, investors and decision-makers across some of the country’s largest companies. Kriel believes media can play a direct role in helping startups grow by connecting them with customers, partners and investors. He shared examples of founders receiving business inquiries and partnership opportunities shortly after being featured in the newsletter, reinforcing his belief that better media can help unlock growth across the ecosystem. Unlike traditional publishers, The Open Letter has built its business around long-term partnerships rather than relying heavily on advertising or subscriptions. Kriel argues that competing with technology giants such as Google and Meta for advertising revenue is increasingly difficult, while subscription models remain challenging in many African markets. Instead, the company focuses on creating value for both its audience and commercial partners through newsletters, events and community initiatives. Looking ahead, Kriel sees a future where technology and business journalism become increasingly intertwined. As technology-native generations move into leadership positions, he believes business news will need to be viewed through a technology lens, reflecting the reality that almost every company is becoming a technology company in one way or another. For The Open Letter, that future extends beyond newsletters. The company is investing in communities, events and new content verticals while exploring opportunities to feature more stories from neighbouring markets, including Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe. But at its core, the mission remains unchanged: helping founders and innovators tell their stories and get the attention they deserve.