19-07-2025
2025 competition to reward SA's top social entrepreneurs
Social entrepreneurs in Gauteng have an exciting opportunity to gain recognition and support for the positive impact they are making in their communities.
The Iwisa No.1 Community Champions Competition is back for its third year, celebrating township, rural, and peri-urban small businesses that are tackling some of South Africa's biggest challenges.
The 2025 edition of the competition launched online on June 15 during Youth Month, which is fitting, as many inspiring entrants in previous years have been young people leading change in their communities.
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Sibongile Mooko, premier executive, said that addressing issues such as youth unemployment, education inequality, or environmental sustainability, these community heroes are being given a chance to be recognised and rewarded.
'The belief that each of us can do good and bring about change inspired the competition, and that this becomes more powerful when we do it together,' said Mooko.
The competition is open to social enterprises operating for more than two years in the Eastern Cape, Free State, Western Cape, and Gauteng.
Eligible businesses must address a clear social or environmental need and be financially active.
Ten finalists will be selected from each region to attend expert-led pitch workshops before competing in regional finals.
Winners could receive funding prizes of R30 000 (first place), R20 000 (second place), and R10 000 (third place) per region.
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Beyond cash prizes, finalists will also benefit from a business bootcamp and three months of dedicated mentorship to help them grow and scale their impact.
This year's competition aligns with national development goals and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
It targets SMMEs working in sectors including
• Food security and nutrition
• Education and skills development
• Health and well-being
• Clean and affordable energy
• Circular economy and recycling
• Digital and tech innovation.
'Our theme this year is about building stronger communities by enabling those who serve them. We want to spotlight entrepreneurs working in these critical areas and help them grow,' said Mooko.
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Applications close on July 31. They must be submitted online via the Iwisa No.1 website
When on the page, click the arrow on the right to find the Community Champions competition details.
In a world often filled with challenges, this competition brings a wave of hope as it celebrates the unsung champions of our communities – the entrepreneurs, problem-solvers, and doers.
If you or someone you know is making a difference, now is the time to be seen, supported, and celebrated.
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