SAB is calling all South African social innovators
Their awards prizes range from R300 000 to R1.3 million in funding and each award winner receives valuable business skills development, coaching, mentorship, and technical support.
The annual SAB Foundation Social Innovation and Disability Empowerment Awards applications are officially open for this year.
The awards are open to entrepreneurs that have innovative solutions that aim to tackle social issues faced by underserved communities or enhances economic access and empowerment for persons with disabilities.
Itumeleng Dhlamini, Head of Programmes for the SAB Foundation said, “Our awards programme serves as a platform to support and empower social innovators who are transforming lives within their families and communities.”
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Their awards prizes range from R300 000 to R1.3 million in funding and each award winner receives valuable business skills development, coaching, mentorship, and technical support.
“Through our continued support, entrepreneurs are equipped to scale their ventures and create sustainable businesses,” she continued.
The Social Innovation Awards are aimed at innovators, entrepreneurs, and social enterprises with prototypes or early-stage businesses that can address social problems in a new or innovative way.
Previous winners have worked in diverse sectors, from health to housing, education, rural livelihoods, energy, water, financial inclusion and many more.
“These products, services, business models and processes should directly address the social challenges that are faced by low-income women, youth, or people living in rural areas,” said Dhlamini.
The Disability Empowerment Awards recognise entrepreneurs or social enterprises that have developed an innovation that improves access to the economy and or provides solutions for persons living with disabilities, whilst generating enough revenue to become sustainable.
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In 2023, one of the winning social innovations was a ground-breaking waste management solution that converts recyclables into market-ready products. Another innovation was a reusable asthma pump sleeve, designed for children and the elderly.
In the Disability Empowerment Category, a high-quality silicone prosthetic liner for amputees that acts as a shock absorber while walking was awarded first place.
Dhlamini said, “South Africa as a whole places a lot of hope on small businesses and entrepreneurs to create jobs for the future.
“Each success story boosts not just economic growth in our country, but the restoration of hope and dignity for all.”
These prestigious awards are open to South African citizens aged 18 and above, who have a proven track record of innovation development. Early submissions are encouraged.
to apply visit https://www.sabfoundation.co.za/social-innovation-awards
