As youth unemployment in South Africa hits a staggering 44.6%, an increasing number of young South Africans are no longer waiting for job opportunities that may never materialise.
Instead, they are proactively creating their own paths through entrepreneurship.
This trend is not merely a solution to economic necessity; it also embodies a spirit of innovation and a desire for meaningful impact, wealth-building, and the continuation of family legacies.
In recent months, statistics have shown a 3.5% surge in youth entrepreneurship, even as traditional employment avenues continue to dwindle. “We’re witnessing young people embarking on entrepreneurial journeys earlier than ever before,” said David Morobe, Executive General Manager for Impact Investing at Business Partners Limited.
“For many, the drive stems from the harsh reality of scarce job opportunities. But for others, it’s a passionate choice—a chance to solve real problems, establish their own ventures, and contribute positively to their communities.”
This entrepreneurial boom is visible in various sectors, from agricultural innovations using drones to sophisticated AI applications in food systems. However, despite the creative spirit, many promising ideas falter due to a lack of essential support. Morobe points out, “A good idea alone isn’t enough.
It requires the right tools, planning, and backing to transform an idea into a viable business. Many young founders still encounter significant barriers, such as limited funding, cumbersome regulations, and insufficient business planning skills.”
One of the predominant challenges faced by new entrepreneurs is the absence of a solid business plan.
“Most funders won’t even consider your idea if you cannot demonstrate precisely how it will operate and expand,” remarks Morobe.
“A business plan should not merely fulfil a formality; it acts as your blueprint for developing, evaluating, and growing a real business.”
To mitigate these challenges and support young entrepreneurs, Business Partners Limited is calling for entries to the SME Toolkit SA Business Plan Competition, now in its 16th year.
Open to all South Africans aged 18-35, the free competition offers not only financial prizes amounting to R150,000 but also invaluable resources including business planning support, mentoring, and access to digital tools.
Participants will have the opportunity to attend complimentary, in-person business planning workshops in major cities, including Johannesburg, Pretoria, Soweto, Durban, and Cape Town.
These workshops are designed to cover essential topics such as marketing strategies, cash flow management, and developing sustainable business models, equipping participants with the skills they need to thrive.
The deadline for submitting business plans is set for 30 November 2025, after which finalists will present their concepts to a panel of experts. The winners of the competition will be celebrated at an awards ceremony in Johannesburg in February 2026.
“Unlocking the entrepreneurial potential of South Africa’s youth is vital for the future of the country,” Morobe added.
“With the right support, today’s young innovators can become tomorrow’s job creators—not just for themselves, but for their communities as well.”
Got an idea? Don’t let it remain just an idea. Enter today at https://smetoolkit.co.za.
The SME Toolkit South Africa provides a wealth of resources, including how-to articles, business forms, and financial tools designed by leading experts to guide entrepreneurs every step of the way—from business setup to management and beyond.
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