Young entrepreneurs in Johannesburg and Cape Town now have the chance to secure vital support and funding, with applications open for the Orange Corners Designs Incubation Programme.
Orange Corners is a global initiative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands that supports young entrepreneurs across Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The South African programme is proudly run and managed by the Craft and Design Institute (CDI).
This 12-month programme will select 20 entrepreneurs in each city. Participants will gain access to:
- Impactful workshops and masterclasses
- One-on-one mentoring
- Support to refine products and strengthen business systems
Funding Opportunities
Entrepreneurs can apply for up to R53 000 in funding through the Orange Corners Innovation Fund, including a R32 000 prototyping grant if milestones are met. The programme is also backed by the City of Cape Town, the V&A Waterfront, Constitution Hill, and the Department of Small Business Development.
The focus is on youth- and women-led businesses with high impact and scalability, especially those contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the green economy, digital, creative, and agricultural sectors.
Khanya Mpuang, Manager of the Orange Corners Designs programme at CDI, says: “We are looking for bold young entrepreneurs (18 – 35) who are ready to grow thriving businesses.
“This programme is not just about funding – it’s about equipping innovators with the skills, confidence and networks to grow sustainable enterprises that create jobs and contribute to the SDGs. We encourage anyone with the drive to make a difference to apply.”
Proven Impact of Orange Corners Designs
Since its 2024 launch, Orange Corners South Africa has supported 67 businesses. Graduates report revenue growth, stronger networks, and new job creation.
Highlights include:
-
Phindile Kotane, founder of PeachyPlum accessories, says the programme “pushed me beyond what I was used to” and credits mentorship for strengthening her business.
-
Sifiso Mthethwa, Maphike Inc Attorneys, expanded internationally and hired two new staff members.
-
Samantha van Rooyen, Unearthed Décor, boosted revenue by 40% in just three months.
-
Mel Laubscher, GenderWearSA, increased revenue by 1,286% after rebranding.
Apply Now
The next programme starts January 2026. Applications close 10 October 2025.
Apply here: https://www.thecdi.org.za/page/OCD
Young entrepreneurs in Johannesburg and Cape Town now have the chance to secure vital support and funding, with applications open for the Orange Corners Designs Incubation Programme.
Orange Corners is a global initiative of the Kingdom of the Netherlands that supports young entrepreneurs across Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The South African programme is proudly run and managed by the Craft and Design Institute (CDI).
This 12-month programme will select 20 entrepreneurs in each city. Participants will gain access to:
- Impactful workshops and masterclasses
- One-on-one mentoring
- Support to refine products and strengthen business systems
Funding Opportunities
Entrepreneurs can apply for up to R53 000 in funding through the Orange Corners Innovation Fund, including a R32 000 prototyping grant if milestones are met. The programme is also backed by the City of Cape Town, the V&A Waterfront, Constitution Hill, and the Department of Small Business Development.
The focus is on youth- and women-led businesses with high impact and scalability, especially those contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the green economy, digital, creative, and agricultural sectors.
Khanya Mpuang, Manager of the Orange Corners Designs programme at CDI, says: “We are looking for bold young entrepreneurs (18 – 35) who are ready to grow thriving businesses.
“This programme is not just about funding – it’s about equipping innovators with the skills, confidence and networks to grow sustainable enterprises that create jobs and contribute to the SDGs. We encourage anyone with the drive to make a difference to apply.”
Proven Impact of Orange Corners Designs
Since its 2024 launch, Orange Corners South Africa has supported 67 businesses. Graduates report revenue growth, stronger networks, and new job creation.
Highlights include:
-
Phindile Kotane, founder of PeachyPlum accessories, says the programme “pushed me beyond what I was used to” and credits mentorship for strengthening her business.
-
Sifiso Mthethwa, Maphike Inc Attorneys, expanded internationally and hired two new staff members.
-
Samantha van Rooyen, Unearthed Décor, boosted revenue by 40% in just three months.
-
Mel Laubscher, GenderWearSA, increased revenue by 1,286% after rebranding.
Apply Now
The next programme starts January 2026. Applications close 10 October 2025.
Apply here: https://www.thecdi.org.za/page/OCD
