funding: Share of R150,000 in cash and mentorship prizes
location: South Africa
host: Business Partners Limited (SME Toolkit SA)
source-url: https://www.smetoolkit.co.za/bpcomp
apply-url: https://www.smetoolkit.co.za/business-plan-competition
The SME Toolkit SA Business Plan Competition, now in its 17th year, is a free competition open to South Africans aged 18 to 35, with no requirement to have an existing business. The competition offers a chance to win a share of R150,000 in cash and mentorship prizes, with all entrants receiving free business planning workshops and mentoring. 5 major cities will host workshops
Overview
The competition is designed to support entrepreneurs in developing their business concepts into workable plans. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from experts and receive feedback on their ideas.
- Free business planning workshops in 5 cities: Johannesburg, Pretoria, Soweto, Durban, and Cape Town
- Covering essentials like marketing, cash flow planning, and building a sustainable business model
- Mentoring and digital tools provided
What to Expect
The competition will consist of a submission phase, where participants will submit their business plans by November 30, 2026. Finalists will then pitch their ideas to a panel of judges, with winners announced at an awards ceremony in February or March 2027
- Submission of business plans by November 30, 2026
- Pitching of ideas to a panel of judges
- Awards ceremony in Johannesburg in February or March 2027
Who Can Participate
- South African citizens aged 18 to 35
- No existing business required, can enter at the idea stage
How to Apply/Register
To apply, participants must submit their business plans through the SME Toolkit SA website by November 30, 2026
- Submit business plan through the SME Toolkit SA website
- Ensure all required information is included in the submission
Why Attend
The SME Toolkit SA Business Plan Competition provides a unique opportunity for young entrepreneurs to develop their business concepts, learn from experts, and receive valuable feedback and mentorship. With a chance to win a share of R150,000 in cash and mentorship prizes, participants can gain the resources and support needed to turn their ideas into successful businesses
The competition also offers a platform for networking and building connections with other entrepreneurs and industry experts, potentially leading to new partnerships and collaborations
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age range for participants?
The competition is open to South African citizens aged 18 to 35
Do I need to have an existing business to enter?
No, most participants enter at the idea stage and want to develop their business concept into a workable plan
What is the deadline for submitting business plans?
The deadline for submitting business plans is November 30, 2026
What can I expect to win if I am selected as a winner?
Winners will receive a share of R150,000 in cash and mentorship prizes
Are there any costs associated with participating in the competition?
No, the competition is free to enter
How will the winners be announced?
The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in Johannesburg in February or March 2027