Orange Corners | Designs Programme: Incubation and Acceleration for South African Social Entrepreneurs.

Application Deadline:  01 April 2024.

A new initiative of the CDI supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, The Orange Corners | Designs Programme is on the lookout for visionary individuals whose businesses are poised for growth and dedicated to making a positive impact in under-resourced communities to participate as the first (1^st) Johannesburg cohort of the programme.

• Are you a dynamic young entrepreneur with a passion for innovation and a drive for social change?
• Do you have a desire to grow your business?
• Are you looking to make a significant impactin your respective industry?
• Are you an entrepreneur committed to your entrepreneurial journey?

If this describes you, then you should apply to participate in the Orange Corners | Designs Programme which will incubate you for a period of 10-12 months undergoing intensive business and mentoring intervention, applying the Design Thinking approach. Participants will be empowered to develop customer-centric solutions that can address real-world needs effectively.

Focus areas of this programme:

• Digital
• Gender Equity
• Creative Industries (film, performance and visual arts, culinary arts, fashion, interior, furniture design etc.)
• Creative Economy
• Circular Economy solutions
  

Requirements

1. Focus: Priority given to ventures led by youth and women entrepreneurs in under-resourced communities.

2. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Existing business that is registered with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission CIPC/sole trader, tax compliance etc.
   
3. Track Record: Enterprise with history and traction and/or market research, or skill of the applicant.
   
4. Viable Idea: have done market research.
   
5. Commitment: Demonstrated dedication from the applicant to the entrepreneurial journey, overcoming challenges with resilience and perseverance.
   
6. Vision, Mission and Purpose: Clear articulation of a vision for social change and community empowerment.
   
7. Innovation: Offering innovative products, services, or opportunities that address pressing needs in their communities or regions.
   
8. Basic business information: operational, financial, or other.
   
9. Must be willing/able to take time off from business (to attend the programme activities).

Benefits:

• Business Development for accelerated growth: Participate in various business training activities.
• Mentorship: Access to seasoned mentors and industry experts to guide your growth journey using the design thinking approach model.
• Networking: Connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and potential collaborators.
• Potential Funding: Position your business better for new opportunities i.e. future funding and investment to fuel your expansion.
• Exposure: Showcase your venture to a wider audience and gain recognition for your efforts.
• Product Development: Will have an opportunity to access product prototyping labs.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Orange Corners | Designs Programme: Incubation and Acceleration