Nedbank Pitch & Polish is back for its 15th year, offering a golden opportunity for 16 entrepreneurs to compete for a life-changing prize package worth R1 million.
This annual event brings together passionate, ambitious individuals from all corners of South Africa to showcase their business ideas and pitch for a chance to make their dreams come true.
What You Need to Know Before Applying
If you’re an entrepreneur ready to take your business to the next level, here’s what you need to apply for this prestigious competition:
- Eligibility Criteria
You must be a South African citizen, 18 years or older, and a resident of South Africa. To qualify, your business must be registered with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) or operate as a sole proprietor. If you are a sole proprietor, you will need to incorporate your business as a company to be eligible for the prizes if you win. - Proof of Information
Be prepared to submit documentation verifying your identity, age, and business ownership.
The Prizes You Can Win
This year’s competition offers a range of exciting prizes designed to support the growth of the winners’ businesses:
- R100,000 in Cash
- R1 Million Grand Prize
This includes R650,000 in cash and R350,000 worth of Raizcorp Incubation Program to help you scale your business. - R50,000 in Cash for the second runner-up.
How the Competition Works
The process to participate in the competition is straightforward but competitive. Here’s a breakdown of the key stages:
Step 1: Enter the Competition
The journey begins with your online application. If your business is already up and running and has the potential for growth, you’re in the right place.
Once you submit your entry, the most promising businesses will be shortlisted.
Step 2: Submit Your Pitch
Shortlisted candidates will be asked to submit a 90-second video pitch, along with supporting documents.
This is your chance to stand out and show why your business should be in the competition.
Step 3: Training Bootcamp
Once the 16 finalists are selected, they’ll attend a two-day, intensive bootcamp in Johannesburg.
The bootcamp, hosted by Raizcorp, is designed to polish your pitch and sharpen your business strategies.
Over these power-packed days, you’ll receive expert mentoring from Raizcorp’s team, boosting your confidence and business acumen.
Competition Rounds: The Road to the Final
Round 1: Group Battles
Contestants will be divided into four groups – red, blue, green, and yellow.
Each group will have its own set of challenges, and only the top two from each group will move on to the next round.
Round 2: Elimination
From the remaining contestants, only one from each group will progress, leaving four contestants heading into the semi-final.
Semi-Final: Wildcard Twist
The semi-final will see the last four entrepreneurs battling for two spots in the grand finale.
But there’s a twist – at the end of this round, a wildcard competitor will enter the competition, making the race even more exciting!
Final: The Ultimate Showdown
In the final, the two remaining finalists will face off against the wildcard competitor.
One will walk away with the top prize, while the runner-up will receive R100,000, and the second runner-up will claim R50,000.
But regardless of the outcome, all finalists will leave as empowered entrepreneurs ready to take their businesses to new heights.
Key Dates
- Pitch & Polish Period: The competition starts on 13 May 2025 and ends on 18 November 2025.
- Deadline for Applications: Make sure to apply by 11 April 2025!
Don’t miss this chance to grow your business, gain valuable exposure, and win incredible prizes! Click here to apply.