By Azwidohwi Mamphiswana
The #YouthStartCT Entrepreneurial Challenge, an annual initiative by the City of Cape Town, provides funding, mentorship and resources to support young entrepreneurs.
As the competition enters its latest cycle, the question arises whether it can help young business owners achieve long-term success?
This year, the challenge features five categories – manufacturing, agriculture, finance and business services, information technology and tourism. Open to youth aged 18-35, entrants must submit applications by 16 March, the winners announced in June.
The competition acts as an accelerator for start-up entrepreneurs, offering seed funding, mentorship and networking opportunities to connect with investors, while providing valuable coaching and visibility to top performers.
In 2024, the competition recognised standout winners in various categories.
The top three winners in the existing business category were Charnelle Davids of Khula Cosmetics, Katlego Montewa of Promage Consulting and Yanga Ngcayisa of YNOT Health.
In the business ideas categories, the winners included Siphokuhle Mcotshana of Mcotshana Holding (manufacturing), Chad Wyngaard of Hydroponic Solar Container Farming (agriculture), Prince Malandela Masimini of Sip Spot Café (finance and business services), Oratile Keamogetse Mojaki of Connect Student (IT), and Wilmarie January of Cape Tourian (tourism).
The competition offers young entrepreneurs opportunities for visibility, networking and skills development. Winning provides a significant boost to a business’s profile and consumer trust.
However, some winners face challenges accessing long-term funding and scaling their businesses in a competitive market.
The City of Cape Town emphasises its critical role in fostering local entrepreneurship.
“This flagship youth development programme offers opportunities for new ideas and collaboration between participants, coaching and mentoring, and seed funding for the top performers,” said community services and health MMC Francine Higham.
While the challenge is praised for its efforts, experts argue that local government support should extend beyond initial backing. Entrepreneurs need ongoing infrastructure, market access and consistent guidance to sustain their businesses in the long run.
