Food Lover’s Market announces Supplier Development Partnership Programme 2025 (South Africa)

This year the Seeds of Change Supplier Development Partnership marks its 5th year of fostering meaningful partnerships with small local businesses that are making a real difference in their communities. What began as a bold vision to support social enterprises has blossomed into a passionate campaign that empowers businesses driven by purpose, sustainability, and social change.

At its core, Seeds of Change is more than just a supplier development programme – it is a commitment to investing in local businesses that uplift their communities. By partnering with small enterprises that share their mission to nourish and enrich lives, they provide them with the tools, mentorship, and market access needed to scale their impact. These businesses are not only suppliers; they are changemakers who address food security, environmental sustainability, and job creation in South Africa.

What are they looking for?

• They are looking for businesses that show:
  • Great products and services that work well as a Food Lover’s Market listing.
  • A business with a very strong social and/or environmental focus and impact.
• If this is you, and you meet, consider applying.

What do you need to qualify for Seeds of Change?

• To qualify, businesses should positively impact their communities and add value to the Food Lover’s Market shopping experience. Smallholder farmers, food surplus management, commercial services, sustainable packaging solutions, and produce and products within in-store departments such as bakery, confectionery, groceries, and liquor are encouraged to apply.
• Requirements include:
  • being operational for 12 months
  • showing financial stability
  • having a business plan showcasing successful implementation

Shortlisting Process

• The shortlisting process includes a review of applications by the Food Lover’s Market Seeds of Change team to refine the list of applicants to 30 candidates. These shortlisted candidates will join Food Lover’s Market for a two-day webinar to share with you what makes a successful business.
• The content of the workshop comprises:
  • Hearing from Food Lover’s Market buyers, industry experts, Seeds of Change alumni (sharing their experiences, the benefits of the programme, etc.) and various guest speakers
  • Covering topics such as finance, marketing, business planning, business models
  • Group activities
  • Tools, tips, tricks and solid advice on how to elevate your business.
  • The two-day workshop aims to share value, even for those who don’t make the top 10. It is to give you the knowledge to take your business forward, regardless of the competition.

Final Shortlisting

• Based on assignments submitted by the top 30, the top 10 candidates are selected and are invited to a five-day boot camp in Cape Town.

For more information, visit Food Lover’s Market.