Standard Bank of South Africa has opened applications for its prestigious Basali Accelerator Programme 2026, a transformative enterprise and supplier development (ESD) initiative designed to empower 51%+ black women-owned businesses in key provinces. Targeting dynamic female founders with proven track records and scalable operations, the programme offers intensive business support, mentorship, and networking opportunities to accelerate growth and market access. Applications close on Wednesday, 10 December 2025 at 17:00.
Empowering Black Women Entrepreneurs Through Basali
“Basali” means “They are women” in Sesotho—a powerful affirmation of the programme’s mission to elevate women-led enterprises as engines of economic transformation. In partnership with Giving Wings NPC, Standard Bank’s Basali Accelerator is part of its broader commitment to inclusive economic participation, gender equity, and sustainable job creation in South Africa’s priority regions.
Programme Overview and Strategic Objectives
The Basali Accelerator is a non-financial, high-impact development programme that provides selected entrepreneurs with:
- Customised business diagnostics and growth roadmaps
- One-on-one mentorship from industry leaders and Standard Bank executives
- Access to peer learning networks and investor readiness training
- Exposure to corporate supply chain opportunities
- Strategic workshops on financial management, marketing, and operations
The programme runs over several months and is delivered through a hybrid model of in-person and virtual sessions, ensuring accessibility and deep engagement.
Eligibility Criteria and Geographic Focus
To qualify, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- 51% or more black women-owned (as per the B-BBEE Act)
- Registered with CIPC and operating in Gauteng, Limpopo, North West, or Mpumalanga
- Annual revenue between R1 million and R10 million
- Business has been operating for more than 2 years
- The majority shareholder must be a South African citizen and full-time entrepreneur
- Not a Standard Bank employee
- Not an alumna of the Basali Development Programme
- Not currently or previously enrolled in any Standard Bank ESD programme
Required Documentation and Application Process
Applicants must prepare the following documents in PDF, JPEG, or PNG format:
- CIPC business registration certificate
- Valid B-BBEE certificate (reflecting 51%+ black women ownership)
- Certified ID copy of the majority shareholder
- Latest annual financial statements or management accounts
The application form is not savable—applicants must complete and submit it in one session. Incomplete or non-compliant submissions will not be considered.
Key Dates and Submission Guidelines
- Application Opens: Immediately
- Closing Date & Time: 10 December 2025 at 17:00
- Programme Start: Q1 2026 (exact dates to be communicated to successful candidates)
Late submissions will not be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
Related opportunity: African Bank Enterprise & Supplier Development Programme 2026
How to Apply and Contact Information
Apply now via the official portal: Standard Bank Basali Accelerator Application Form
For questions or technical support during the application process, contact the Basali team at:
basali@givingwings.co.za
Don’t miss this opportunity to scale your business with the backing of South Africa’s leading financial institution. If you’re a driven black woman entrepreneur ready to lead, grow, and thrive—apply today and join the next cohort of Basali leaders.
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