Township entrepreneurs across South Africa now have an extraordinary opportunity to get funded through the 2026 Standard Bank Kasi SME National Pitch Challenge. With a grand prize of R1 million up for grabs, this competition is one of the most…
If you’ve been turned down for a business loan or can’t afford the high interest rates commercial banks charge, here’s something you need to know: the same banks that rejected your loan application can probably provide you with a cheaper,…
The Old Mutual SMEgo Pitchathon is a leading entrepreneurship competition aimed at tackling the funding challenges faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa. With a total of R4.2 million in funding for 2025, up by more than R1 million from last year, it provides a great opportunity for startups in the ICT and financial services sectors.
The Spaza Shop Support Fund (SSSF) is a government initiative that is designed to strengthen township-based spaza shops that form a critical component of South Africa’s informal economy. These shops tend to operate informally but they provide essential goods, create…
Discover how small businesses in Gauteng can apply for funding to adopt resource-efficient technologies. Learn about eligibility, benefits, and how to submit your application by 29 January 2025.
The South African township economy is witnessing a digital revolution in supply chain management, transforming how small businesses and spaza shops operate. Innovative companies like Delivery Ka Speed and Vuleka are introducing game-changing solutions for local entrepreneurs. From "buy now, pay later" options to efficient inventory management systems, these platforms are helping spaza shops modernize their operations. Tech-driven solutions are addressing critical challenges in logistics, stock control, and payment systems, proving that township businesses can thrive in the digital age.
Small businesses are encouraged to apply for the SEDFA Asset Assist Programme for SMEs to get funding for selected equipment and working capital. The program aims to provide assistance to Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) by providing them with funding to purchase equipment for starting operations or for increasing production. The Asset Assist Programme is specifically targeting machinery, equipment, and procurement of raw materials.
The Allan Gray Makers Startup Incubator offers an 8-month incubation program for South African electricians and plumbers aged 18-35. This initiative provides essential business training, mentorship, and a monthly R3000 transport allowance to transform skilled artisans into successful entrepreneurs. Operating across Gauteng, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Limpopo, the program supports both aspiring and early-stage business owners in the trades sector. Applications for the 2025 cohort close January 31, 2025.
The Johannesburg Business School Centre for Entrepreneurship (JBSCE), in partnership with the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA), invites tech entrepreneurs in the Soweto area to join the SEDA UJ Rapid Incubator programme.
BRICS Women’s Business Alliance Startup Contest is aimed at stimulating the participation of women in entrepreneurial activities by identifying, supporting, and promoting women’s startups. The contest is particularly looking at startups that are innovative and that have potential to scale globally to countries within and beyond the alliance countries.
Africa’s Business Heroes aims to inspire, train, and support entrepreneurs to build businesses that can create development and economic opportunities on the continent.
The Irish Tech Challenge is aimed at bridging the gap between South Africa's and Ireland's tech sectors as well as empowering innovation and entrepreneurship in South Africa. The initiative will select 7 entrepreneurs that have their sights set on scaling their startups globally.
The Pitch and Polish competition is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs to win prizes worth R1 million to use towards growing their business. The competition is sponsored by Nedbank and in partnership with Raizcorp, a business incubator, for promotion and execution. There is no specific mandate in terms of sectors that are targeted, and this means that all business owners may participate.
The Pitch and Polish competition is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs to win prizes worth R1 million to use towards growing their business. The competition is sponsored by Nedbank and in partnership with Raizcorp, a business incubator, for promotion and execution. There is no specific mandate in terms of sectors that are targeted, and this means that all business owners may participate.
Small businesses are encouraged to apply for the SEDA Asset Funding for SMEs to acquire capital to fund selected equipment as well as working capital. The program aims to provide assistance to Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) by providing them with funding to purchase equipment for starting operations or for increasing production. The SEDA Asset Funding for SMEs is specifically targeting machinery, equipment, and procurement of raw materials.
One of the key responsibilities of an entrepreneur is ensuring compliance with both industry-specific and national legal regulations. Failure to adhere to these requirements can significantly impede critical business activities. For example No funder will consider investing time or money in a business that does not comply to laws and that risk penalties and fines.
Early-stage startup funding from Sony Sony Group Corporation has announced the establishment of the Sony Innovation Fund: Africa to provide much-needed capital for early-stage startups in the entertainment industry on the continent. The company is targeting innovative start-ups in industries…
