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Grants, VC funds, accelerators, and competitions for African entrepreneurs.
Grants, VC funds, accelerators, and competitions for African entrepreneurs.
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R500,000 per category (R250,000 cash + R250,000 mentorship/support) — R3,000,000 total across 6 categories
Annual awards programme recognising South African entrepreneurs driving sustainable growth and positive change. Six award categories each worth R500,000 (R250K cash + R250K in-kind support including mentorship, hardware, and business services). Winners announced at the annual SAFT Summit. Backed by the Oppenheimer family's R1 billion founding donation.
Cash Prize
R250,000 cash per category winner
In-Kind Support
R250,000 worth of mentorship, hardware, and business support services per winner
Summit Exposure
Winner announced at the annual SAFT Summit at Sandton Convention Centre
Visibility
Media exposure and recognition across Oppenheimer Generations network
Investor Access
Live investor pitches at the Summit; introductions to investor network
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Entrepreneurs under 35 steering their business towards growth and impact.
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Businesses tackling social challenges to make a meaningful difference.
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Innovation in technology-based businesses — digital health, platforms, fintech, etc.
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Novel business concepts with high innovation potential.
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Women-led businesses demonstrating excellence. Sponsored by Standard Bank.
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Businesses that attended the SAFT Summit, completed OOM modules, and implemented measurable strategies from them.
South African entrepreneurs with registered businesses who demonstrate grit, determination, and commitment to sustainable growth. Strong preference for businesses creating jobs and contributing to the SMME ecosystem. Each category targets a specific entrepreneurial profile — tech innovators, social impact leaders, young founders, women business leaders, and those who have implemented the SAFT methodology.
R250,000 in tailored mentorship, hardware, and business support services. Access to the SAFT alumni network and Oppenheimer Generations ecosystem. Ongoing visibility through SAFT media channels.
There appears to be almost no independent web footprint for the SA Future Trust Awards themselves: no clear third-party winner lists, recipient interviews, review threads, or portfolio tracking surfaced in available search results.; Because external evidence of past recipients and outcomes was not found, applicants should do extra diligence before applying significant time: ask organizers for prior winner names, selection process details, judging criteria, timelines, and examples of how the R250,000 support package is delivered in practice.; The non-cash portion of the prize is described broadly as mentorship, hardware, and resources, but without independent reporting it is hard to assess the exact form, timing, or value realization of that support.
Six categories means six chances — apply to the one that fits best. The 'Most Innovative Idea' category is broad and accommodates many business types. The programme is relatively new (launched 2023), so competition is less fierce than more established awards. Attending the SAFT Summit and completing OOM modules unlocks the additional 'Best Implementation of Playbook' category. Standard Bank connection via Women in Business category may open further doors.
2023
Active Since
Yes
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