Tuesday, 30 December 2025

Informal Traders and Micro Enterprises Development Programme

Minister Ndabeni hands over equipment donations to micro and small businesses

This was part of the department's informal and micro enterprises development programme, which was specially designed to empower and develop informal traders to become skilled and adequately equipped to manage their businesses.

Monday, 16 June 2025, 09:56
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Minister Ndabeni hands over equipment donations to micro and small businesses
Minister of Small Business Develop-ment Stella Ndabeni speaking during the equipment handover. Photo: Loyiso Dyongman

KNYSNA NEWS - The minister of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni, led a delegation of senior officials from the Knysna Municipality and Garden Route District Municipality to hand over machinery and equipment to micro and informal traders in Khayalethu on Tuesday 10 June.

This was part of the department's informal and micro enterprises development programme, which was specially designed to empower and develop informal traders to become skilled and adequately equipped to manage their businesses. 

The Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (Sedfa) Knysna facilitated the process of the beneficiaries applying for the equipment.

The venue was fully packed by small business owners who came to obtain their equipment, while others came to listen to advice from the minister on how to develop their businesses.

Ndabeni advised them of many opportunities that her department has for them. "As small businesses, you must start forming corporations, work together and share ideas. When you work together, you can do more.

"We will support you, as you can see the equipment we have brought here. This is free of charge and you don't have to pay.

"But we need to see there is something you are trying to achieve, but are struggling because of having no resources. Business opportunities are grabbed by people from other countries. You have to think out of the box. We are always open to supporting small businesses."

She advised that people can start businesses by collecting discarded items that can be used and recycled. "You must see an opportunity to make a business when you see rubbish."

Cussidy Morrison, one the beneficiaries, the owner of Stoned Clothing Brand, said she is does her own designs. She received a laptop and a heat press machine. "It's awesome that I have received these two pieces of equipment and that they are going to help me with my business. I want to thank you for this as this will develop my business."

Yandiswa Magqibisa came to collect some equipment on behalf of her sister, Zukiswa. Zukiswa does grass cutting and maintenance on the N2. "She received two grass cutting machines. On behalf of my sister, I would like to thank Sedfa, the Knysna Municipality and the national department for doing this."Mayor Thando Matika expressed his gratitude for these donations. He said he was happy that the venue was full and people who had come out in their numbers even though they were not all beneficiaries. He said that they had come to listen to what was being shared was a positive sign.

‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’ 

 

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LINK:  https://www.knysnaplettherald.com/News/Article/Local-News/minister-ndabeni-hands-over-equipment-donations-to-micro-and-small-businesses-202506161000

Wholesale and Retail SETA (W&RSETA)

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS – 2026/27 DISCRETIONARY GRANT FUNDING WINDOW

 

 

The W&RSETA invites wholesale and retail levy-paying companies, constituent associations, public and private institutions of learning and trade unions to apply for the 2026/27 Discretionary Grants to implement interventions that address the Sectoral Priority Occupations and interventions, as well as Emerging Occupations outlined in the 2026/27 Sector Skills Plan.

Applications should be submitted through the W&RSETA MIS on or before 31 January 2026.

Click here for the full details.

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LINK: https://www.wrseta.org.za/node/73749

Monday, 29 December 2025

Small Business Support

Guideline to apply for R500 million spaza support fund

Monday, April 21, 2025

Government has called on eligible South African spaza shop owners in townships and rural areas who want to improve, expand, and sustain their shops to apply for assistance with the R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund (SSSF). 

This as government officially opened applications for the fund aimed at increasing the participation of South African owned spaza shops in the townships and rural areas retail trade sector.

READ | Government empowers spaza shops

What the support fund seeks to achieve:

•    It provides funding, training, business skills development, and technical support to help businesses compete effectively against larger retailers.
•    Offers funding of up to R300 000 per shop through a combination of grants and low-interest loans.
•    Assists shop owners in meeting hygiene and regulatory standards to ensure the provision of safe, high-quality products.
•    Encourage the adoption of digital payment systems, inventory management tools, and financial literacy programs to improve operational efficiency.
•    Facilitate wholesale aggregation, allowing spaza shops to access bulk purchasing advantages and competitive pricing.

What you need to qualify:

•    The owner of the spaza shop must be a South African citizen or naturalised as a South African citizen prior to 1994.
•    Spaza shops must operate within South Africa in rural and township areas and serve local communities.
•    The spaza shop must be registered with the local municipality in accordance with the relevant by-laws and business licensing requirements.
•    Registration with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) will be optional based on the enterprise’s funding requirement. For enterprises receiving funding above R80 000 registration with CIPC will be required within a period of 6 months.
•    The business must have a valid registration with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) or alternatively be allowed a six-month transitional period.
•    The spaza shop must comply with all other relevant legislative and registration requirements necessary for its operation. (e.g. food preparation and health and safety standards)
•    The owner must actively manage the spaza shop.
•    Funding will prioritise entrepreneurs aged 18-35; female-owned spaza shops will receive priority consideration and businesses owned by individuals with disabilities will be given priority.

What does the support package for funding of up to R100 000 entail:

•    It includes a stock (grant) of a maximum of R40 000 for the initial purchase of stock via delivery channel partners.
•    Assets and infrastructure (blended grant and loan): a maximum R50 000 for the upgrading of building infrastructure, systems, refrigeration, shelving and security.
•    A maximum of R100 000 for training programmes that will include point of sale devices, business skills, digital literacy, credit health, food safety and business compliance.

What does the support package for funding of above R100 000 up to R300 000 for registered and compliant entities entail:

•    It includes a stock (grant) of a maximum of R40 000 for the initial purchase of stock via delivery channel partners.
•    A maximum of R250 000 for a funding split, 50% of the funding will be provided as a grant, and 50% will be provided as a free-interest loan.
•    A maximum of R100 000 for training programmes that will include point of sale devices, business skills, digital literacy, credit health, food safety and business compliance.
•    The fund will be jointly administered by the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) and the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEFDA).
•    In order to access the funding, applicants need to apply to the NEF and SEDFA through the prescribed application process outlined on the relevant institution's website.


The following websites can be used to apply for funding:


•    Spaza Shop Support Fund - www.spazashopfund.co.za
•    NEF - www.nefcorp.co.za
•    SEDFA - https://systems.sefa.org.za/SMMEPortal/
•    Create an account on https://systemsnew.sefa.org.za/SMMEPortal/
•    Fill up all the required information on the registration page, read and accept the terms and  cconditions and  submit.

The contact details for the Spaza Shop Support Fund Call Centre are 011 305 8080 or via email: Spazafund@nefcorp.co.za

Contact details for the NEF Call Centre are 0861 843633, SEDFA Call Centre 012 748 9600 or an email can be sent to helpline@sefa.org.za.

Working hours: Mon – Fri: 9 am – 10 pm ; Sat: 9 am  –  3 pm and Sunday: closed.

-SAnews.gov.za

LINK:  https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/guideline-apply-r500-million-spaza-support-fund


Africa-History/World-History

Africa in the Bible – Notable African Regions & Figures

Here are some notable mentions of Africa in the Bible.

The continent of Africa holds a significant yet often underappreciated place in the biblical narrative. While the Bible does not explicitly mention “Africa” by name, many of its regions, countries, and peoples are woven into the fabric of its stories. 

From the ancient land of Egypt, which serves as the backdrop for numerous pivotal events, to the kingdom of Cush and the renowned visit of the Queen of Sheba, Africa’s influence and presence are undeniable. 

These references to Africa in the Bible highlight the historical and cultural interconnectedness of African civilizations with the biblical world. This article delves into the various mentions and roles of African regions and figures in the Bible.

  1. Egypt: Egypt is one of the most frequently mentioned places in the Bible. It is referenced over 600 times, both in the Old and New Testaments. Egypt was a significant location in the lives of many biblical figures, including Abraham, Joseph, Moses, and Jesus.

  2. Cush (Kush): This region, often identified with modern-day Sudan and Ethiopia, is mentioned numerous times. Notable references include Genesis 2:13, where the river Gihon flows around the land of Cush, and Isaiah 18:1-2, which speaks of the people of Cush.

  3. Ethiopia: Ethiopia is referenced several times in the Bible. For example, in Acts 8:27-39, the Ethiopian eunuch is baptized by Philip. Ethiopia is also mentioned in Psalms 68:31 and Zephaniah 3:10.

  4. Libya: Libya, referred to as Put or Phut in the Bible, is mentioned in Ezekiel 30:5 and Acts 2:10.

  5. The Queen of Sheba is another notable biblical figure associated with Africa. She is traditionally believed to have come from the region that includes modern-day Ethiopia or Yemen. The most detailed account of her visit is found in 1 Kings 10:1-13 and 2 Chronicles 9:1-12.

Here’s how she fits into the context of Africa in the Bible:

  1. Historical and Geographical Context: The Queen of Sheba is linked with the ancient kingdom of Sheba, which was located in the region corresponding to present-day Ethiopia and Yemen. The Ethiopian tradition often identifies her as Makeda, and she is celebrated in Ethiopian history and lore.

  2. Biblical Account: The Bible describes her as visiting King Solomon in Jerusalem after hearing of his wisdom and wealth. She came with a caravan of camels carrying spices, gold, and precious stones. During her visit, she tested Solomon with hard questions and was profoundly impressed by his wisdom and the prosperity of his kingdom.

  3. Significance: Her visit underscores the connections and interactions between the regions of Africa and the Israelite kingdom. It highlights the far-reaching fame of Solomon’s wisdom and the wealth of Israel, drawing interest from distant lands.

In conclusion, Africa’s presence in the Bible is both profound and multifaceted, highlighting the continent’s historical and cultural significance within the biblical narrative. From Egypt’s pivotal role in the lives of figures like Joseph, Moses, and Jesus, to the land of Cush and its frequent mentions, and the Queen of Sheba’s notable visit to King Solomon, Africa’s regions and peoples have left an indelible mark on biblical history. 

These references to Africa in the Bible underscore the interconnectedness of African civilizations with the broader biblical world, revealing a rich tapestry of interactions, influences, and contributions. By recognizing and appreciating these connections, we gain a more comprehensive understanding of the Bible’s historical context and the diverse cultures that shaped its stories.

 Africa’s role in the Bible is a testament to the continent’s enduring legacy and its integral place in the history of faith. This exploration of Africa in the Bible invites us to delve deeper into the scriptures, uncovering the layers of meaning and significance that Africa brings to the biblical narrative.

Visit our Blog for more 

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LINK: https://biblesociety.org.bw/africa-in-the-bible/

SUPPORT AFRICAN BUSINESSES

20 Business Grants for African Entrepreneurs and Startups

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20 Business Grants for African Entrepreneurs and Startups

These Business grants for African Entrepreneurs are offered to individuals, firms/company, business or corporations to enable them cover scale up or develop their business, pay workers salaries, and run ads. Among the 20 Business Grants for African Entrepreneurs and Startups are listed:

  • SeedStars World
  • Shared Interest
  • Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Grant
  • Lundin Foundation
  • Root Capital
  • The Anzisha Prize
  • Schwab Foundation
  • MEST Africa Challenge
  • Savannah Fund
  • She Leads Africa Accelerator Grants
  • Tshikululu Social Investments
  • Miss Africa Seed Grants for African Women in Tech Businesses
  • YALI Regional Leadership
  • Ashden International Awards for Entrepreneurs in Developing Countries
  • African Entrepreneurship Award
  • GroFin Grants
  • African Women Development Fund
  • Unilever Young Entrepreneurs Award
  • Innovation Prize for Africa
  • African Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship (AWIE)

1. SeedStars World

SeedStars World is one of the business grants offered to entrepreneurs from Africa. Seedstars Africa is an organization active offering SME grants in over 53 countries in the world, especially regions like Africa, Asia, Middle East and South America.

To access business grants from Seedstars, you will need to apply for the annually offered Business grant competition, a competitive grants for young business owners and emerging markets.

These business grants for entrepreneurs from Africa help to identify promising business owners, organizations and companies in the very need of capital.

Target/Audience

Support Entrepreneurs who have a business in any African country.

To build and support online businesses in Africa.

To fund web and mobile tech startups in Africa.

2. Shared Interest

This business grants for Africans is lending support to basically young entrepreneurs in Africa. Shared Interest was established in 1990 with the aim of financing artisans, farmers and food producers in developing countreis as lending society founded situated in England.

Shard Interest has a very large investment and satellite offices in major African countries lik Ghana, Kenya, Costa Rica, Peru and some Eastern Africa countries. Having members investing about $1,000 from over 9,000 investors has help provide a shared capital to support entrepreneurs in Africa with grants.

Target/Audience

To support Entrepreneurs in Africa from developing countries.

Provided SME grants to make finance available to business owners such as food producers, farmers, artisians.

3. Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Program

The Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Grant is offered by the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) to provide 10,000 aspiring African Entrepreneurs an opportunity to benefit from $100 million grant to create 1,000,000 jobs and contribute $10 billion in annual revenues to Africa’s economy over the next 10 years

The Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship grants Programme (TEEP), a Pan-African entrepreneurship initiative of the Tony Elumelu Foundation founded by a Nigerian billionare investor is a multi-year programme of training, funding, and mentoring, designed to empower the next generation of African entrepreneurs.

Target/Audience

Provide finance to aspiring African entrepreneurs

Offer $100 million grant to create 1,000,000 jobs and contribute $10 billion in annual revenues to Africa’s economy.

African entrepreneurs who are business owners or startups with achievable innovative ideas.

4. Tshikululu Social Investments

Tshikululu Social Investments provides wide range of social investment and business grants to Entreneurs residing in Africa. The provider is a South African Corporate Social Investment (CSI) manager responsible for dispensing SME Grants to Africans.

Tshikululu Social Investments over the years is managing CSI funds of different organizations like Rand Merchant Bank Fund, De Beers Fund, and many others.

Target/Audience

To support entrepreneurs in Africa with SME grants.

Provide Business grants to wide range of business owners, companies ranging from community support and growth, arts and culture, healths, medical assistance, health care e.t.c

5. Lundin Foundation

The Lundin Foundation is one organization offering business grants. established by the Swedish family by name Lundin in the year 2005 to offer Entrepreneurs in African countreis business grants.

Lundin Foundation has it’s headquarters situated in Canada, but operate branches in these African countries- Ghana and Kenya.

Several business owners and entrepreneurs across Africa has reeived this business grants offerd by Lundin Foundation.

Target/Audience

Provide financial support to already established business, organizations around the world

Provide business grants, risk capital and mentorship to business owners, companies across Africa.

6. Root Capital

The Root Capital offer Business grants to empower entrepreneurs, businesses in Africa. Root Capital is a non-profit investment fund established in 1991 to positively provide funds and impact businesses, families in rural communities and bridge social interaction with business owners.

Over 450 businesses have receive grants worth $million dollars within the years of business grants offered. However, the policies has it a 100% payback for the Root Capital investors.

Target/Audience

Bridge business grant gap and promote rural development with business capital

Provide business training and sourcing funds options to strengthen small and medium sized businesses.

Connect to agricultural business and deliver financial training including funds to strengthen and grow businesses in Africa.

7. Anzisha Prize

The African Leadership Academy’s Anzisha Prize provide young innovative African entrepreneurs with business grants if you are a founder of an established business venture.

Not only will you get business grants but leadership and entrepreneurial training for young Africans between age of 15 to 22 years.

This is a perfect business grants for young innovative entrepreneurs in Africa be it any venture, business, and project.

Target/Audience

To provide business grants to young innovative African entrepreneurs

Business mentorship for business owners of age 15 to 22 years.

8. Schwab Foundation

In order to advance social entrepreneurs in across the globe, Schwab Foundation continually seek for business owners who are social entrepreneurs in different areas such as agribusiness, tech, health, education.

 The Schwab Foundation was established in 1998 as a social entrepreneurship firm situated in Geneva, Switzerland to provide business grants across Africa region with rigorous selection stages which upon selection you will receive the business grant.

Target/Audience

Provide grants to social entrepreneurs in areas such as education, agribusiness, health, technology e.t.c

Basically, fund social entrepreneurs after intensive screening with the business grants.

9. MEST Africa Challenge

Are you a young tech entrepreneur emerging in the tech industries? MEST Africa Challenge offers annual Africa wide-pitch competition with business fund of $50,000 in equity investment for startups.

MEST Africa Challenge is a great business grants for entrepreneurs who are in tech business based in any of the country-Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sénégal, South Africa and Tanzania. The challenge is a unique search for African tech entrepreneurs and focus on giving them coaching, business capital, wide networking with other entrepreneurs, startup.

Target/Audience

To support African entrepreneurs with business investment capital.

Provide business grants to young emerging technology entrepreneurs in Africa.

10. Savannah Fund

The Savannah fund is also another fantastic option, as it provides startpus, business grants to African entrepreneurs. Savanah fund have over time generated a revenue mor than $8million as it focusess on nursery stage high growing technology entrepreneurs and startups in Africa.

Since it has been assisting entrepreneurs with business grants. It has records of support to African entrepreneurs from Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa and other neighbourhood countries.

Target/Audience

 To strongly bridge the business funding gap between ventures capital investments and early startups and entrepreneurs in Africa.

11. She Leads Africa Accelerator Grants

This business grants is offered annually to female entrepreneurs between the age of 18-35 and have already business that need funding in Nigeria.

The She Leads Africa Accelerator prize will raise your profile, have access to Nigeria funding, best business minds in the country and an opportunity for investement in your business.

The program duration is 6 months with a N2Million in investment capital to entrepreneurs who are females.

Target/Audience

To provide investment capital of N2million

To give female entrepreneurs between age of 18 to 35 with existing business based in Nigeria, business fund, media coverage to boost profile.

12. Miss Africa Seed Grants for African Women in Tech Businesses

A US$5 000 business grant as prize for winner while $1 000 grand prize for finalists. Miss Africa Seed funding supports tech business owned by African entrepreneurs who are women/girls.

The Business grants for African entrepreneurs is an initiative organized by DCA Academy offeering funding as support to females in science related fields.

If you are current resident of any African country with demonstrated leadership potential as company representaive or social enterprise situated in Africa. Then consider this grants are it’s support STEM fields and related subjects.

Target/Audience

To provide grants to support wowen and girls who demonstrate leadership qualities.

Females in STEM fields and related subjects with US$5 000 business grant as prize for winner while $1 000 grand prize for finalists.

13. YALI Regional Leadership

The Young African Leadership Initiative (YALI) was launched to support African entrepreneurs and invest in the future generation businesses in Africa.

Basically, civil leaders, entrepreneurs, and business owners receive grants including other benefits such as leadership training, creatitivity and innovation, effective communication as entrepreneur.

Target/Audience

To provide business grants

Support African entrepreneurs between age 18 to 35 years

14. Ashden International Awards for Entrepreneurs in Developing Countries

Ashden International Awards for Entrepreneurs is one of the world’s biggest green energy business awards which provide innovative entreprises with the contribution of creating sustainable energy systems.

The entrepreneurship grants is open to non-government organizations, social entreprises helping to build a low carbon society now for the future generations.

Business and social entreprises do receive $20, 000 and have to be based on United Nations list of eligible countries. African countries are on the list of eligibile countries so this give you a one privledge to consider this grant.

15. African Entrepreneurship Award

The business grants is provided by BMCE bank of African with a focus to provide a platform for mentorship. SME grants to entrepreneurs in Africa for smart business ideas.

African Entrepreneurship awards is another funding grants offered to African Entrepreneurs whose business are applicable to the African environment with social impact.

You can consider this business grant for Africans if you are a citizen of any African country and of age 18 years and above whose business fall into the categories of innovation & sports entrepreneurship, and sports entrepreneurship.

You can choose this business grant as it offers $1million to selected African entrepreneurs.

16. GroFin Grants

Small and medium sized business in Africa that are into manufactring,agribusiness, education, healthcare and basic key services such as energy, water, sanitation do receive business grants and supports such as financial loans.

GroFin Grants is a private financial institution with the aim of providing business and entreprises in Africa with medium term financial support. Ever since it was launched in 2004, it has provide business support to over 700 small and medium entreprise and helping to sustian jobs in some countries in Sub Saharan African and MENA regions.

Target/Audience

To provide financial support to business and entreprises in Africa

Offer financial loans to medium sized business in manufacturing, agribusiness, education, and healthcare.

17. African Women Development Fund

The business grants is provided to support organizations that are women led or tackling issues of female rights, security, and justice.

African Women development funding is a pan African female grants that support any organization that strives to support women right and participation for peace.

The business must have been in existence upto 3 years, registered and located in African country, led by a woman and have structured organization board for effective project implementation.

Target/Audience

Provide funds to business/organization registered and situated in an African country

Offers fund to business/enterprise that are led by women and tackling women rights, security and justice in their country/region.

18. Unilever Young Entrepreneurs Award

This business grants support innovative entrepreneurs tackling some world challenges, specifically the globe sustainability goals.

Unilever young entrepreneurs award can be the perfect grant for you if you a a social entrepreneur with impact and need supports as funds to scale your business, entrepises to a next level.

This business grants for African entrepreneurs have fund lots of businesses and reached a large number of young entrepeneurs through funding and support.

Target/Audience

To provide business grants to innovative young entrepreneurs

To support support social entrepreneurs with funds to scale business tacking world sustainability challenges.

19.Innovation Prize for Africa

Innovative prize is one of the grants for African entrepreneurs. The business grants is aimed to encourage an innovation driven solutions to the challenges in Africa.

Have an idea or solution to a critical challenge affecting Africa countries. Innovation prize for Africa is a platform to help you amplify your voice and innovative solution to the challenges faced.

So you need a funding, then apply for innovative prize for Africa, if you have a business idea or solution that is impactful to Africa.

Target/Audience

The award support an innovation driven ideas and business that solve challenges in Africa.

20. African Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship (AWIE)

This program seeks to provide business grants to accelerate entrepreneurship that are female led organization. AWIE is among the entrepreneurship grant platforms that support and provide funding to innovative , creative female entrepreneurs across the African region.

Each year AWIE recognizes and support females in private non-profit businesses in Africa doing tremendous change and impacting the economic growth of Africa.

Target/Audience

To support women led organizations registered in any African country.

Award nominated female entrepreneurs in some award categories.

Conclusion

As entrepreneurs and startup, you can get business grants and fundings to support and scale up your entreprises if your business is registered and located in any Africa country. The above business grants for Africans entrepreneurs are the top grants avialable to entrepreneurs in African region.

Take advantage of this wide range of business grants and apply for the latest ongoing and opend business grants.

 


LINK: https://africaeurope-innovationpartnership.net/news/20-business-grants-african-entrepreneurs-and-startups

Wednesday, 24 December 2025

Business/Enterprise

  

Global Resilience Partnership — Innovation Challenge for Entrepreneurs

The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) Innovation Challenge for Entrepreneurs supports innovative, locally grounded solutions that strengthen resilience to climate-driven extreme events such as floods, landslides, heatwaves, droughts, and glacial hazards in the Hindu Kush Himalaya region. The call is open to local organizations, NGOs, research institutions, social enterprises, startups, and community-based groups working in or with communities in HKH countries. Selected innovators can receive up to US$100 thousand in grant funding, along with technical assistance, and mentoring. Applications are accepted until 15 January 2026. Innovation Challenge for Entrepreneurs

Categories Cross-Cutting Subjects

Halcyon — Global Climate Fellowship

The Halcyon Global Climate Fellowship is a six-month fellowship designed to support climate-focused startups and social enterprises working on mitigation, adaptation, or resilience solutions, particularly those led by entrepreneurs from underserved or historically marginalized communities worldwide. The program is open to for-profit or nonprofit ventures with a market-ready solution and at least one dedicated founder, and provides up to US$25 thousand in funding, along with tailored business support, mentorship, leadership training, and investor access. The application deadline is 15 January 2026. Global Climate Fellowship

Categories Energy, Climate Change

Massachusetts Institute of Technology — Community Resilience Prize

The Macquarie Community Resilience Prize seeks technology-enabled solutions building climate-resilient communities while creating meaningful employment and skill-building opportunities in Brazil, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. The prize is open to organizations, startups, NGOs, social enterprises, and innovators worldwide, particularly those working directly with vulnerable or frontline communities. Selected winners receive US$50 thousand in grant funding. The application deadline is 25 February 2026. Details here

Categories Energy, Climate Change

BlueActionBANOS — Call for Community-Led Actions

BlueActionBANOS funds large, community-driven projects that contribute to the EU Mission “Restore Our Ocean and Waters by 2030” by protecting or restoring marine and freshwater ecosystems, preventing pollution, or advancing a sustainable blue economy in the Baltic and North Sea region. Eligible applicants are consortia of 2 to 12 entities in Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland and Sweden,  and can include local/regional authorities, NGOs, research and educational institutions, SMEs, startups, cooperatives, knowledge brokers, and similar organisations. Selected projects receive €200 thousand to €2 million per action. The call is open until 16 March 2026. Call for Community-Led Actions

Categories Water Resources

Bridges for Enterprise — Business Incubation Program for Social Enterprises

Bridges for Enterprise (BfE) works with social impact startups from Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. The Incubation Program supports entrepreneurs seeking to solve some of the world’s most urgent challenges. The program is open to for-profit and non-profit social enterprises and startups at the pre-seed or seed stage. Participating entrepreneurs receive 3 to 4 months of professional advice and mentorship. Applications can be submitted on a rolling basis year-round. However, social entrepreneurs must submit their application before specific deadlines to be considered for specific cohorts: 01 April (Autumn Cohort) and 01 October (Spring Cohort). Link

Categories Cross-Cutting Subjects

Stanford Center for Ocean Solutions — Blue Food Research Grant Program

The Stanford Center for Ocean Solutions (COS) offers a global research grant aimed at early-career researchers and practitioners to support innovative work on “blue foods” (i.e., aquatic foods from oceans, rivers, lakes). The grant provides a six-month fellowship, including a US$ 10,000 research stipend plus travel support. Eligible are early-career professionals from academia, government, NGOs or private sector. Applications open on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Blue Food Research Grant Program

Categories Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry

African Union Development Agency — Agribusiness Accelerator

The Home-Grown Solutions Agribusiness Accelerator (HGSA-A) offers support to established agribusiness enterprises across Africa. Eligible enterprises must operate in high-potential agribusiness value chains beyond primary production (such as agro-processing, input supply, logistics, distribution, digital agriculture, sustainable agriculture inputs). The application deadline is 14 December 2025. Details

Categories Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry

Imagine H2O — Water-Technology Startups Asia

Imagine H2O seeks innovative water solutions from anywhere in the world. Any company offering solutions for water access, safety, resilience, or efficiency is welcome to apply. Selected candidates will have access to a network of industry executives, experts, and entrepreneurs and showcase their ideas during a week-long boot camp at the Water Innovation Week. Participants will receive cash awards and in-kind donations from strategic partners. The deadline for applications is 19 December 2025. For more information, visit the Imagine H2O Accelerator Program

Categories Water Resources

Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund — Biodiversity Conservation in the Caribbean Islands

The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) makes small grants in support of biodiversity conservation in the Caribbean “Caribbean Islands Biodiversity Hotspot.” Grants support community-based sustainable small-scale fisheries, protection and conservation of endangered marine species, marine protected areas management, and activities that promote improved marine and coastal ecosystems. Grants are up to US$50 thousand. Eligibility for grants extends to NGOs, community groups, private enterprises, universities, and other civil society applicants. The deadline for letters of inquiry is 23 January 2026. Details here

Categories Biodiversity, Conservation, Wildlife

Global Water Intelligence — Global Water Awards 2026

Nominations are open for the annual Global Water Awards 2026. Global Water Intelligence seeks technologies, plants, projects, and companies that make significant contributions to the development of the water sector. Focus areas include water or wastewater treatment, water conservation and management, ecologically sustainable industry technologies, and commercial solutions, among others. Nominations are open to everyone (including individuals, companies, organizations, or initiatives etc.). Nominations close on 27 February 2026. Find the call

 

SOURCE: 

Terra Viva Grants

LINK:  https://www.terravivagrants.org/tag/businessenterprise/

SMALL BUSINESS SUPPORT


Vuk'uzenzele Logo

 Funding for small business development

Written by Sulaiman Philip
In a bid to grow entrepreneurship in South Africa, a number of government funding platforms are available to qualifying enterprises and individuals.

You can get help in starting up a small business. (Photo: Brand South Africa)Between June 2015 and May 2016, the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) trained 1 037 informal traders, established 29 satellite offices and five centres of business excellence.

The department’s mandate is the promotion and development of sustainable and competitive entrepreneurs, small businesses and co-operatives that contribute to job creation and economic growth.

As long as your business or co-operative meets the criteria, you can access funding or grants through the DSBD or one of its agencies. Bear in mind, public sector funding involves a thorough and careful process, so be patient and plan for longer timelines.

SEFA

Established in 2012, the Small Enterprise Finance Agency (SEFA) helps start-ups and small businesses. They will either fund grants or loans or help entrepreneurs access funding from other sources. SEFA services are designed to help micro, small and medium-sized business enterprises. Co-operatives and survivalist enterprises that need help to grow are especially encouraged to seek assistance.

Loans from SEFA can range from as little as R500 up to R3 million, with the loans paid directly to owners. This direct payment is important in a business sector that is often not part of the traditional banking system. 

Micro, small and medium enterprises and co-operatives with a viable business plan can apply for a loan. SEFA staff will evaluate the application to determine the viability of the loan, and at what rate it can be repaid without damaging the company.

E-mail: helpline@sefa.org.za

Call centre: 086 000 7332

Website: http://www.sefa.org.za/

NEF

If you are directly involved in your business and need funding between R250 000 and R75 million, the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) may be able to help. It is mandated to offer financial and non-financial assistance to black-owned businesses.

Funding decisions are guided by the Industrial Policy Action Plan across a variety of sectors. Start-ups can qualify for funding up to R10 million. The NEF also offers assistance for rural and community development, franchise finance and new industry development.

E-mail: info@nefcorp.co.za

Call centre: 0861 843 633

Website: www.nefcorp.co.za / www.nefbusinessplanner.co.za

SEDA

The Small Enterprise Development Agency – an initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry – is available to give guidelines and training to entrepreneurs and assist with the processes needed to access funds, such as the drawing up of business plans.

E-mail: info@seda.org.za

Call centre: 0860 103 703

Website: www.seda.org.za

How to access services

Eligibility for assistance is based on:

  • A completed application form and business plan by owner or manager
  • Ability to repay loan
  • Business must be registered
  • The business must operate in South Africa
  • Assessment of application will be done at a regional office closest to the business.

After due diligence is done, a committee decides on approval.

Upon approval, before funds are transferred, applicants will be required to sign a contract acknowledging debt.

SOURCE: VUK'UZENZELE 

LINK:  https://www.vukuzenzele.gov.za/funding-small-business-development

 

APPLICATIONS/GRANTS/FUNDING

  

Emergency Information for American Citizens

Grants

U.S. Mission South Africa Public Diplomacy Funding Opportunities

The U.S. Mission to South Africa, Public Diplomacy (PD) section of the U.S. Department of State supports projects and activities that strengthen ties between the United States and South Africa.  We seek projects that highlight shared values and promote bilateral cooperation and meaningful exchange by connecting South Africans to Americans.  Unlike development-oriented programs, we seek to projects that are conceived from a public diplomacy perspective, which means that they promote partnerships and information and knowledge exchange between Americans and foreign publics and institutions to enable more effective, mutually beneficial cooperation with the United States.  It also means that we seek projects that broaden and deepen dialogue and empower cooperation between American citizens and institutions, including civil society and educational organizations, and their South African counterparts.

Current Funding Opportunities

  1. Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) Program 2026

Application Forms

 

 

  1. Fulbright South Africa Exchange Program Logistics Management 2025

Application Forms

 

 

  1. Academy for Women Entrepreneurs 2025

Application Forms

 

  1. Annual Program Statement 2025

Application Forms

 

 

Additional Resources

Grants Information Session

  • We recently held a virtual grants information session for potential applicants.  Click here for a link to the video and to post any follow up questions.

Grant Application Forms

 

Paying for SAM.gov registration: real or scam?

Kindly note that the U.S. government does not charge a fee to register in the System for Award Management (SAM) system. The U.S. government does not use social media to directly contact you. No government staff will call or text you to solicit business.

There is no payment that is required for you to register and maintain your entity registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) system.

We advise for you to be vigilant on all messaging networks for proposals from company(s) offering to help you register or activate your registration in SAM for a fee.  No government staff will request money to renew or activate your registration or to be eligible for an award. If you receive an unsolicited email claiming, or implying, affiliation with the government (or which a reasonable person could confuse with an official message from the government), you can:

  • Forward the email to the Federal Trade Commission, specifically its Unsolicited Consumer Emails (UCE) program at spam@uce.gov

Please see below for additional resources about verification:

  • Do I need to pay a fee to register or keep my SAM.gov entity registration active? Click here!
  • How do I know if an email is a legitimate U.S. Government email? Click here!
  • What are phishing and spear phishing emails and how do I recognize them? Click here! 

SOURCE:  U.S EMBASSY

LINK: https://za.usembassy.gov/