By Ncamiso Dlamini
The Kasi Pitching Challenge has reached a significant milestone, investing over R2 million in seed capital into township businesses across South Africa. This initiative, which began in 2022, has grown into a national movement, empowering township entrepreneurs with essential tools, visibility, and funding to realise their business aspirations.
With its 40th edition now underway, the Kasi Pitching Challenge has become a vital platform for economic inclusion. Each Kasi Business Workshop awards a R50,000 grand prize, comprising both cash and crucial business support. This direct funding has not only injected capital into local economies but has also connected innovators from townships to broader markets, professional networks, and further funding opportunities.
Originating in Daveyton, City of Ekurhuleni, the Challenge has expanded its reach, providing more than just exposure to township businesses. It offers critical access to finance, mentorship, and markets. To date, the programme has received over 3,000 entries, seen 240 township businesses reach the finalist stage, and supported 39 winners. These achievements highlight the dynamic nature of South Africa’s township economy, where creativity, resilience, and ambition drive progress. Entrepreneurs, from car wash operators to home workshops and street vendors, demonstrate a strong spirit of enterprise.
Operating under the theme “Broadening Market Opportunities,” in the 40 edition of the Kasi Pitching Challenge, aims to bridge the gap for township entrepreneurs who possess innovative ideas but often lack access to formal value chains. By linking participants with capital, mentorship, and markets, the Challenge helps informal operators transition into formal, sustainable businesses capable of expanding across provinces and sectors. The R50,000 prize money is often transformative, enabling entrepreneurs to acquire machinery, secure premises, hire staff, or meet compliance requirements, thereby unlocking new avenues for growth and community upliftment.
This season has already celebrated nine winners who are making a tangible impact on the township economy. These include The Light Candles from Soweto, Larona Toilet Hire Drainage and Sanitation from Tlhabane, Tau Royal Entertainment from Mamelodi, Nonkanyiso Funeral Services from Umlazi, Cloudy Deliveries from Khayelitsha, Papa Jones Café from Tzaneen, LJ Lewis Pty Ltd from Galeshewe, OWA Jewellers from Bochabela, and Smart D App from Kanyamazane.
As the Challenge prepares for its 40th event in Mthatha, it continues to seek out and support visionary township entrepreneurs. The Kasi Pitching Challenge has firmly established itself as one of the most impactful grassroots entrepreneurship programmes in the country, proving that innovation flourishes in townships and that given the right platform, these entrepreneurs can lead the next phase of inclusive growth, job creation, and economic transformation in South Africa.
Supporting this initiative is TEA (Township Entrepreneurship Agency), which has been instrumental in shaping South Africa’s township entrepreneurship landscape for the past decade. TEA has provided training and support to over 100,000 entrepreneurs and offered funding and growth assistance to more than 500 township-based businesses. Through workshops, skills development, research, and financial aid, TEA consistently uplifts entrepreneurs who are often overlooked by mainstream platforms, yet are building thriving businesses within their communities.
