Cape Town, July 3, 2025 — Entrepreneurs and innovators with groundbreaking ideas for a greener future are invited to participate in the upcoming 2025 FNF GreenPitch Challenge, a dynamic startup competition aimed at fostering sustainable business solutions across South Africa.
Important Dates
- Entries Close: July 4, 2025
- Finalists Announced: July 28, 2025
- Pitch Preparation Workshop: August 1, 2025 (Cape Town)
- Main Pitch Event: September 4, 2025
Organized in partnership with GreenCape and supported by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNF), this initiative seeks to identify and propel early-stage and pre-growth green enterprises into the next phase of development.
A Platform for Green Entrepreneurs
The GreenPitch Challenge offers a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs with viable green economy business ideas to showcase their innovations to a panel of esteemed judges in a high-stakes, “shark tank-style” event scheduled for September 4, 2025.
The competition is open to startups at two key stages: those with a proof of concept or pilot project seeking seed funding, and established businesses with sales aiming for Series A investment.
Participants can register to attend the event via livestream, making it accessible to a broad audience across South Africa and beyond.
Eligibility and Focus Sectors
Applicants must position their innovations within at least one of the core green economy sectors highlighted in GreenCape’s Market Intelligence Reports. — including Circular Economy, Energy, Sustainable Agriculture, and Water.
Businesses can be based anywhere within South Africa, provided they meet the specified criteria.
Why Participate?
The GreenPitch Challenge is more than just a competition; it’s a catalyst for sustainable growth.
Winners and finalists will share in prizes valued at over R300,000, including cash awards, mentorship, and access to vital funding networks.
The top prize includes a cash reward and exclusive workshops on investment strategies, facilitated by RMB Ventures.
Additionally, finalists will benefit from mentorship support and introductions to potential funders eager to support innovative green solutions.
Supporting Partners and Mentors
Thinkroom, renowned for developing tailored SME programmes, will provide strategic support to participating businesses, helping them refine their development strategies from conception to execution.
Innovate UK Global Alliance Africa joins this year’s challenge as a new supporter, bringing a focus on circular waste and water management.
The alliance will assist finalists through the pre-pitch process and offer post-pitch mentorship and funding opportunities to scale impactful solutions.
Who Should Enter?
Entrepreneurs and innovators with economically viable ideas in the green economy—whether at the pilot stage or already trading and seeking growth capital—are encouraged to apply.
This competition aims to accelerate green innovations that can address pressing environmental challenges while creating sustainable economic opportunities.
Join the Green Movement
The 2025 FNF GreenPitch Challenge is a call to action for those committed to building a resilient, sustainable future for South Africa.
By supporting innovative startups today, the initiative hopes to foster a thriving green economy for generations to come.
For more information and to register, visit this page.
