Youth-led agriculture is key to South Africa’s food security, rural development, and job creation. Yet, many young agri-preneurs face challenges accessing capital, training, and support. Fortunately, several public and private initiatives are stepping up with dedicated funding and development programmes.
Here are seven funding schemes targeting youth-owned agri-businesses in 2025:
1. NYDA Grant Programme
Focus: Youth-owned businesses, including agri-enterprises
Funding: Grants ranging from R1,000 to R250,000
Support Includes: Mentorship, business training, equipment, stock
Eligibility: Youth (18–35), registered business, South African citizen
More info: www.nyda.gov.za
2. IDC Gro‑E Youth Scheme
Focus: Youth entrepreneurship across sectors, including agriculture and agro-processing
Funding: Concessionary loans, equity, and quasi-equity (R1 million – R50 million)
Support Includes: Pre- and post-investment support, mentorship
Eligibility: South African citizens aged ≤35; youth ownership of 26%+
Website: www.idc.co.za/gro-e-youth-scheme
3. SAB Foundation Tholoana Enterprise Programme
Focus: High-impact youth and women-owned businesses, including agri-businesses
Funding: Grant-based seed funding
Support Includes: Business mentorship, mental wellness, market access
Eligibility: 51%+ Black-owned businesses, operating for over a year
Website: www.sabfoundation.co.za/tholoana-enterprise-programme
4. AgriBEE Fund
Focus: Transformation of the agricultural sector
Funding: Grants and blended finance
Support Includes: Mechanisation, infrastructure, compliance, training
Eligibility: Black-owned agri-businesses in line with AgriBEE codes; youth are encouraged to apply
Website: www.nda.gov.za
5. Land Bank Agricultural Youth Fund
Focus: Supporting young entrants into agriculture
Funding: Loans tailored for youth, including infrastructure and inputs
Support Includes: Enterprise development, mentorship, technical assistance
Eligibility: South Africans aged 18–35 in agricultural enterprises
Website: www.landbank.co.za
6. SEFA Youth Challenge Fund
Focus: Youth-owned small enterprises, including agriculture
Funding: Zero-interest loans up to R250,000
Support Includes: Non-financial support, training, and compliance support
Eligibility: Youth (18–35), 100% Black-owned, B-BBEE level 1 or affidavit
Website: www.sefa.org.za
7. DAFF Youth in Agriculture Programme (Y-Agripreneur)
Focus: Youth participation in agriculture
Funding & Support: Starter packs, inputs, infrastructure, mentorship
Eligibility: South Africans aged 18–35
How to Apply: Through provincial departments of agriculture
Related opportunity: 6 Funding Schemes for Agro-Processing Businesses in South Africa
Take the First Step
From grant funding to low-interest loans, these schemes provide young agri-preneurs with the support needed to thrive. If you’re involved in livestock, fresh produce, agro-processing, or land restoration — there’s a programme designed to help you grow.
Before You Apply
- Ensure your business is registered (CIPC) and tax-compliant
- Prepare supporting documents: ID, business plan, B-BBEE affidavit
- Show active youth involvement in daily operations
- Understand whether funding is a grant, loan, or blended option
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