Innovators and social entrepreneurs invited to apply for award funding
The SAB Foundation is calling on innovators and social entrepreneurs wanting to make a difference to apply for social innovation and disability empowerment awards where they can stand a chance to not only put their work on the map but walk away with R1.3m.
Since the inception of the awards, almost R110m has been invested in funding and business support, empowering 174 entrepreneurs.
As of March 2023, these initiatives have created 1,577 new jobs and impacted 9,940 livelihoods, according to the foundation.
The awards are aimed at enterprises with prototypes or early-stage businesses that aim to address social problems in innovative ways.
These products, services, business models and processes should directly address the social challenges that are faced by low-income women, youth, or people living in rural areas.
Previous winners have worked in very diverse sectors, from health to housing, education, rural livelihoods, energy, water, financial inclusion and many more.
For the disability empowerment awards, entrepreneurs who have developed an innovation that improves access to the economy or provides solutions for persons living with disabilities, while generating enough revenue to become sustainable, are given the nod.
Prizes for winners range between R300,000 and R1.3m in grant funding.
Each award winner will receive valuable business skills development, coaching, mentorship, and technical support.
Last year Nelson Mandela Bay entrepreneur and founder of prosthetic engineering technologies Luvuyo Sume walked away with the R1.3m under the disability empowerment awards category.
The Nelson Mandela University industrial engineering graduate through his company makes high-quality silicone prosthetic liners for amputees that act as a shock absorber.
Sume said the prize enabled their business to move into commercialisation quicker.
“We have also had the privilege of receiving world-class business coaching, not to mention extensive media exposure,” he said.
SAB Foundation head of programmes Itumeleng Dhlamini said the awards served as a platform to support and empower social innovators who were transforming lives within their families and communities.
“SA, as a whole, places a lot of hope on small businesses and entrepreneurs to create jobs for the future,” Dhlamini said.
“Each success story boosts not just economic growth in our country, but the restoration of hope and dignity for all.
“Through our continued support, entrepreneurs are equipped to scale their ventures and create sustainable businesses.”
Entries are now open to South African citizens aged 18 and over, who must have a proven track record of innovation development.
For more information about the criteria and to apply, visit