Orange Corners Designs Incubation Programme 2026 (South Africa)

The focus of the programme is on circular/green economy, digital, agriculture and creative sectors, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with an emphasis on businesses that demonstrate innovation and/or unique propositions that contribute to the SDGs and address pressing needs or opportunities while showing the ability to scale in terms of impact and/or job creation.

This 12-month intensive incubation programme will support 20 innovative businesses at each site. Participants will gain access to in-person workshops, one-on-one mentorship, and essential business development tools. Selected entrepreneurs may also become eligible for opportunities such as prototyping grants and business loans of up to R1,000,000 from the Orange Corners Innovation Fund, enabling growth and innovation for their businesses. Full attendance and commitment to the programme are crucial.

The eligibility criteria require entrepreneurs to be South African, aged between 18 and 35, and to own, manage, and run their businesses. Applicants must present either an existing business with demonstrable track record or credible market research supporting new product or innovation viability. The business must contribute towards the SDGs while committing to scaling impact and job creation. Registration with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission is necessary, or at least a commitment to register. Applicants must also complete the form providing all required business information and register as a CDI member.

The selection process involves shortlisted applicants participating in a 4-day bootcamp, with final participants chosen after presenting before adjudicators. A total of 20 participants will be selected for each cohort. While preference will be given to women entrepreneurs, all eligible youth between 18 and 35 years are encouraged to apply.

For more information, visit Orange Corners.