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Calling innovators in Cape Town: applications open for the Orange Corners Design programme 2025

Writer's picture: Mimik PRMimik PR

By Mimik PR



Unlock business growth, innovation and funding opportunities of up to R1million.


Young entrepreneurs in Cape Town have a fresh opportunity to elevate their businesses with the launch of the Orange Corners Designs (OCD) programme 2025. The programme, which focuses on empowering entrepreneurs with innovative solutions is now accepting applications for its 2025 cohort of 20 participants.


Managed by the Craft and Design Institute (CDI) and supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, the Orange Corners Designs programme helps visionary entrepreneurs scale and make a lasting positive impact. Since its launch in 2024, the programme has been supporting 40 businesses to date in Cape Town and Johannesburg.


This 12-month intensive programme will provide 20 selected entrepreneurs with impactful workshops, masterclasses, and one-on-one mentoring to help refine their products, strengthen business systems, and address critical market needs.


Unlock funding opportunities up to R1million


Additionally, selected businesses may qualify for funding opportunities, such as prototyping grants and business loans of up to R1,000,000 from the Orange Corners Innovation Fund (OCIF), which is also managed by the CDI – this can support their innovation and scaling efforts.


The programme targets innovative businesses in the following sectors:

  • Circular/Green economy (clean/renewable energy, waste management, recycling, upcycling etc.)

  • Digital innovation (fintech, healthcare, retail, education etc.)

  • Agriculture (horticulture, aquaculture, agro-processing, food and beverage manufacturing etc.)

  • Creative Industries (product design, manufacturing, culinary arts, gaming, interactive media etc.)


Supporting South Africa's next generation of entrepreneurs


Khanya Mpuang, Programme Manager for OCD, shared the programme’s potential to transform local businesses: “The Orange Corners Designs Programme provides not only practical support but a platform for entrepreneurs to reimagine their impact on society. We’re helping innovators and businesses grow, create jobs, and to contribute to sustainable community development and environmental sustainability.”


Eligible entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 35 and women entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be an existing business with demonstrable history and traction and/or need to provide credible market research that shows viability if proposing a new product or innovation.


“The business insights gained through the Orange Corners Designs programme is an invaluable resource for all emerging businesses.” – Samantha van Rooyen, co-owner of Unearthed Home Décor.


“The networking and knowledge gained through Orange Corners Designs has made this journey of entrepreneurship worthwhile,” – Thembisile Masthinini, founder and owner of Alta.


Call for applications


Are you a young entrepreneur ready to scale your business, create jobs, and drive social impact? Apply for the Orange Corners Designs programme today and unlock access to invaluable resources, expert guidance, and potential funding.


The application deadline is 20 February 2025.To Apply: Visit www.thecdi.org.za/ocd and submit your application.


For more information: Email phefumlela.bam@thecdi.org.za



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