The Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA) has launched the Youth Entrepreneurship Fund, a comprehensive intervention designed to combat South Africa’s youth unemployment crisis. This integrated programme combines enterprise finance with Business Development Support (BDS) to empower young innovators.
Pillar 1: Youth Business Expansion Programme
The Youth Business Expansion Programme (YBEP) targets existing youth-owned enterprises seeking expansion capital. Eligible businesses must have a minimum 24-month trading history, demonstrate revenue traction, and possess competent management to scale operations or enter new markets.
Pillar 2: Youth Startup Programme
The Youth Startup Programme (YSP) addresses the early-stage funding gap. It offers seed capital to newly registered enterprises or pre-revenue ventures with a validated business concept, requiring market validation through pilot customers or working prototypes.
Unified Eligibility Criteria
Both pillars operate under a unified application window. Key requirements include:
- Minimum 70% youth ownership with qualifying youth aged 18 to 35.
- Active youth involvement in day-to-day management.
- CIPC and SARS compliance.
- Operations within designated sunrise sectors.
Related opportunity: SEDFA and CIDB Launch R300m Construction Fund for MSMEs | Apply Now
Funding Amount and Application Process
Successful applicants can access funding of up to R5,000,000. The application process is entirely digital to ensure seamless access for young entrepreneurs across the country.
How to Apply
Youth entrepreneurs meeting the criteria are encouraged to submit their applications online. Apply via the SEDFA Youth Entrepreneurship Fund Portal
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