A new wave of opportunity is here for South Africa’s young innovators. The Orange Corners Innovation Fund (OCIF) GROW programme is calling on ambitious entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35 to apply for business funding worth up to R1 million, offering a life-changing boost to startups ready to scale.
The OCIF GROW initiative forms part of the global Orange Corners incubation and acceleration programme, an effort by the Kingdom of the Netherlands to nurture youth-led innovation across Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
Managed locally by CDI Capital, the programme provides funding, mentorship, and investment readiness training to help young entrepreneurs turn promising ventures into sustainable growth stories.
A Hybrid Funding Model Built for Impact
Successful applicants stand to receive between R200,000 and R1-million in funding through a 50/50 hybrid model:
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50% grant – non-repayable financial support
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50% interest-free loan – repayable over 18 months
“This programme is about more than just money,” explains Ryan Rode, Manager of CDI Capital. “We are seeking ambitious entrepreneurs across South Africa with disruptive products, revolutionary services, or bold business models that are already showing traction and are ready for growth.”
Training, Mentorship and Real Results
Selected applicants will enter an eight-week Raise Ready programme between April and June 2026, designed by Viridian, an impact agency specialising in startup and SME finance. The experience includes one-on-one coaching, pitch training, and a deep dive into fundraising strategies.
Graduates of the first OCIF cohort — which included innovations such as mobile solar-powered waste buy-back centres, precision farm management tools, and African-inspired décor brands — are already proving the power of this platform.
“This has been such an enriching programme that came to me at the right time in my business. It feels like I’m stepping into my power,” says Samantha van Rooyen, founder of Unearthed Home Décor. “I’m so grateful. Thank you for helping me grow as both an entrepreneur and a person.”
Who Can Apply
The OCIF GROW programme is open to businesses that are:
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Owned and managed by youth (under 35 years old)
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Based in South Africa
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Operating for six months to seven years
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Earning between R250,000 and R10-million in annual sales
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Showing market traction and an innovative model
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Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Key Dates for 2025–2026
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Application deadline: 31 December 2025
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Shortlist announcement: 28 February 2026
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Raise Ready selection: 31 March 2026
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Training period: April – July 2026
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Final pitch and funding announcement: August 2026
Entrepreneurs can apply at cdicapital.co.za/OCIF and are encouraged to join an online information session on 25 November 2025 at 3PM to learn more about the process.
About OCIF GROW and CDI Capital
OCIF GROW is implemented by CDI Capital (Pty) Ltd, a subsidiary of the Craft and Design Institute (CDI) — a Level 1 B-BBEE impact investor established in 2016. CDI Capital focuses on empowering SMMEs through grants, loans, and equity investments, and is currently investing R121 million into 156 local businesses, unlocking over R418 million in follow-on funding.
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