9ooAs climate challenges intensify across Africa, sustainable and environmentally focused businesses will increasingly define the future. The BeGreen Programme helps young founders launch or scale ventures in the green economy by offering training, mentorship, and grant funding. If you have—or plan to build—a business with positive environmental impact, this can help you turn ideas into viable, revenue-driven models.
What You’ll Get (Benefits)
- Grant funding: Finalists can receive up to USD 5,000, disbursed in tranches tied to milestones.
- Tailored learning journey: Your path through the programme is adapted to your business stage (idea, new, or existing).
- Mentorship and coaching from advisors in sustainability, business development, finance, and green sectors.
- Hands-on workshops & peer learning: Real-world challenges, pitch preparation, feedback from experts.
- Continued support post-programme: Incubation, networking, and wraparound resources.
Eligibility & Who Should Apply
- Young entrepreneurs (ages 18 to 34) based in South Africa or Nigeria.
- Founders with either:
• An idea or prototype (ideation stage)
• A new business (3–6 months, prototype tested)
• An existing business (revenue or traction) - Committed to creating a sustainable impact in the green economy (e.g., recycling, solar, sustainable agriculture, forestry).
- Able to engage in an online programme and meet milestone requirements.
Timeline & Key Dates
- Learning Block 1: October 23 – November 7, 2025
- Learning Block 2 + Assessment: November 10 – November 27, 2025
- Live Pitch Event: December 1 – December 9, 2025
- Block 3 (Business Acceleration & Funding Milestones): January 5 – May 31, 2026
- Application Deadline: 21 October 2025
How to Apply
- Go to the BeGreen Programme page on Umuzi’s site: BeGreen Programme
- Click “Apply Now” and complete the application form (15–30 minutes).
- Take the short entrepreneurial skills test attached to the application.
- If shortlisted, proceed through Learning Block 1, then subsequent blocks and pitch rounds.
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