Applications open for the SA Tech Challenge 2025

hustlersnetworking
Jun 1
2 min read

🌍 About the Opportunity:

SA Tech Challenge 2025 is a G20 Presidency Initiative aimed at celebrating South Africa’s most promising digital innovators. With R3 million in prize funding up for grabs, this national competition seeks high-impact digital tech solutions that address pressing socio-economic challenges. The top six sector innovators will compete at the G20 Digital Innovation Alliance (G20-DIA) Summit in Cape Town for a chance to win up to R1 million in funding, plus global exposure and support.

🔍 Challenge Categories:

Entrepreneurs can apply under one of the following focus areas:

🔹 Digital Platforms : Scalable platforms that connect users, solve inefficiencies, and open new digital markets—especially for underserved communities.

🔹 FinTech : Innovative financial technologies improving access, inclusion, security, and management for individuals and small businesses.

🔹 Secured Digital Infrastructure : Cybersecurity and data protection tools that strengthen digital trust, especially for MSMEs with limited resources.

🔹 Circular Economy :Sustainable solutions that repurpose or regenerate resources while addressing environmental impact.

🔹 Innovations for Connectivity : Tech solutions that enhance internet access, telecom infrastructure, or smart device affordability to bridge the digital divide.

🔹 Innovations for Development : Digital products in agriculture, education, or health that improve delivery, access, and measurable social impact.

💥 Key Benefits:

🏆 R3 Million in Prize Funding • 1st Place: R1 million • 2nd Place: R750,000 • 3rd Place: R500,000 • 4th to 6th: R250,000 each

🌐 Global Visibility & Support • Represent SA at the G20-DIA Summit in Cape Town • Access to global investors and networks • Business development support and mentorship packages

✅ Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify, your business must:

✔ Be a registered South African MSME with <250 employees and <R250 million annual turnover ✔ Be post-revenue, with your tech at TRL 7 or higher (tested and used in real environments) ✔ Deliver measurable impact aligned to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) ✔ Operate in one of the 6 listed sector categories ✔ Be 100% owned and headquartered in South Africa ✔ Be compliant with CIPC and SARS requirements