Standard Bank South Africa invites high-potential township-based entrepreneurs to enter the 2026 Kasi SME Pitch Competition. Now in its fourth year, this initiative identifies and supports sustainable businesses driving inclusive economic growth across South Africa’s township economies.
Competition Overview and Purpose
The Kasi SME Pitch Challenge offers entrepreneurs in all nine provinces a platform to showcase innovation, access capacity-building resources, and connect with investors. Provincial winners advance to the national finals, competing for a R1 million grand prize at the Kasi SME Summit 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- 51% or more black-owned business registered with CIPC
- Operational within South African townships for minimum 2 years
- Annual revenue under R50 million
- Valid B-BBEE certificate or sworn affidavit
- Business tax compliance and applicant aged 18+
Provincial and National Structure
Ten entrepreneurs per province are shortlisted to pitch before expert judges. The top three receive cash prizes: R50,000 for the provincial winner and R10,000 each for runners-up. Nine provincial winners plus one first runner-up form the Top 10 advancing to national finals.
Capacity Building and Support
Top 10 finalists access Standard Bank’s Enterprise and Supplier Development pitching masterclass, refining business models, storytelling, and presentation skills ahead of the national stage.
Related opportunity: Join the Health Entrepreneurship Summit 2026 | RSVP Now
Application Process and Deadline
Applications are administered by Giving Wings on behalf of Standard Bank. Submit your entry before 17:00 on Friday, 22 May 2026. Apply now: Standard Bank Kasi SME Pitch Competition 2026
Why Enter This Competition
Beyond funding, participants gain national visibility, market access pathways, corporate supply chain connections, and mentorship from industry leaders committed to sustainable township business growth.
Stay Updated
Want to stay informed about more funding opportunities,grants, business support programmes, tenders, incubators, training, and SMME resources in South Africa? Follow our updates on the StepApp Network:
- WhatsApp Channel: Follow StepApp Updates
- Facebook Page: Follow us
- WhatsApp Group: Join here
- LinkedIn Profile: Connect with StepApp
- X (Twitter): Follow StepApp SA on X