The Orange Corners Designs incubation programme has announced that applications are now open for its 12-month initiative, aimed at supporting entrepreneurs in Johannesburg and Cape Town. This programme provides mentorship, training, and potential funding to help businesses thrive.
Managed by the Craft and Design Institute (CDI) and funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this programme will select 20 entrepreneurs from each city. Participants will engage in workshops and masterclasses, receiving mentorship designed to strengthen their businesses and tackle market challenges.
Programme Highlights
Entrepreneurs can apply for grants of up to R53,000 through the Orange Corners Innovation Fund, which includes a prototyping grant of R32,000 for those who achieve specific milestones. This initiative is co-funded by several partners, including the City of Cape Town, V&A Waterfront, Constitution Hill, and the Department of Small Business Development.
The programme specifically targets youth and women-led enterprises with growth potential and social impact, particularly in sectors such as the green economy, digital, creative, and agriculture, all aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Khanya Mpuang, the manager of the Orange Corners Designs programme at CDI, emphasises that the initiative goes beyond funding. It aims to equip innovators with essential skills, confidence, and networks to develop sustainable enterprises that generate jobs and contribute to the SDGs. The programme encourages anyone with a passion for making a difference to apply.
Impact and Milestones
Since its launch in South Africa in 2024, the programme has successfully supported 67 businesses. Earlier this year, 30 entrepreneurs celebrated their graduation from the inaugural intake in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Application Details
Applications for the programme will close on 10 October, with the new cohort set to begin in January 2026. Interested entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply through the CDI website to seize this valuable opportunity.
Apply here