Standard Bank has launched the 2026 edition of its Kasi SME National Pitch Challenge, giving township entrepreneurs across South Africa the chance to compete for the R1m grand prize.
Applications for the provincial round opened on 6 May and closed on 22 May 2026, with qualified SMEs from all nine provinces eligible for entry.
The competition is part of the Kashi SME Summit, which celebrates its fourth anniversary this year and focuses on helping township businesses grow through funding opportunities, market access and business support.
In each province, 10 entrepreneurs will be shortlisted to present their businesses to a judging panel. The provincial winner will receive Rs 50,000, while the first and second runners-up will receive Rs 10,000 each.
The nine provincial winners, along with one first runner-up, will advance to the national finals, where they will compete for a R1 million prize.
Finalists will also participate in the Standard Bank Enterprise and Supplier Development Pitching Masterclass, aimed at improving their business model, storytelling and presentation skills before the final round.
Naledzani Mosomane, head of enterprise and supplier development at Standard Bank Business & Commercial Banking South Africa, said the initiative aims to help township SMEs gain visibility and access to economic opportunities.
“The National Pitch Challenge gives township SMEs a platform to showcase their innovation and resilience,” Mosomen said.
“This initiative reflects Standard Bank’s ongoing commitment to unlocking market access and creating pathways for sustainable business growth.”
The bank said the summit will continue to focus on connecting SMEs with corporate supply chains, retailers, financiers, digital marketplaces and other ecosystem partners.
To qualify, businesses must be at least 51% black-owned, operate within a South African township, be registered with the CIPC and be in operation for at least two years. Businesses must also generate annual revenue of less than R50m.
Applicants must be 18 years of age or older and must provide a valid tax certificate as well as a BBBEE certificate or affidavit.
Entrepreneurs can apply through the Standard Bank Kasi SME Pitch Challenge platform before the closing date of 22 May 2026.
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