Applications are open for OCIF GROW Cohort 3, run by the Orange Corners Innovation Fund (OCIF). It helps established youth-owned South African businesses prepare to pitch for up to R1 million in growth funding, structured as 50% grant and 50% interest-free loan. CDI Capital manages the programme in South Africa.
Stage 1 deadline: 30 October 2026. Stage 2 closes on 16 November 2026 and is by invitation only.
About OCIF GROW
OCIF GROW supports innovative youth-owned businesses that are ready to scale, create jobs and increase their impact, and that have enough revenue to repay a loan. It is open nationally to businesses registered and operating in South Africa. Businesses that have taken part in Orange Corners Designs, Orange Corners Trust or OCIF IGNITE are encouraged to apply.
What OCIF GROW Offers
- An 8-week Raise Ready finance-readiness programme for up to 10 businesses. It covers growth planning, financial modelling and financial strategy, with virtual training on grants and debt, due diligence, governance and term sheets.
- The programme runs from mid-January to mid-March 2027 and needs 2–4 hours a week.
- The chance to pitch to the OCIF Investment Committee for up to R1 million: half grant, and half interest-free loan repayable over up to 18 months.
- Post-investment support linked to your approved growth plan for businesses that receive funding
Note: selection into Raise Ready does not guarantee funding.
Who Can Apply?
- A South African citizen or permanent resident, with a business that is CIPC-registered and operating in South Africa
- The business is at least 51% youth-owned (ages 18–35), and the youth owners actively manage it
- Trading for at least six months and within its first seven years
- Consistent market traction, such as customers, sales, contracts or repeat business
- Annual turnover of R250,000 to R10 million
- A clear innovation in its product, service, process, marketing or business model
- A growth plan that can create jobs and measurable impact
- Willingness to take part fully and share progress, financial and impact information
Businesses that have already received OCIF GROW funding cannot apply. Neither can businesses under debt review, business rescue, liquidation or insolvency.
How to Apply
- Read the details on the official OCIF GROW page.
- Complete the Stage 1 application, a short eligibility screen that takes 10–15 minutes, by 30 October 2026.
- If you pass Stage 1, register as a CDI member and complete the detailed Stage 2 application by 16 November 2026. It includes financials, supporting documents and a pitch video.
More Funding for Young Entrepreneurs
- Orange Corners Nigeria Incubation Programme 2026
- DGC Investment Readiness Programme 2027
- Youth Ecopreneur Programme (YECO) 2026–27
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding does OCIF GROW offer?
Up to R1 million, structured as 50% grant and 50% interest-free loan repayable over up to 18 months.
Who can apply?
South African citizens or permanent residents with a CIPC-registered business that is at least 51% youth-owned, trading for six months to seven years, with a turnover of R250,000 to R10 million.
When is the deadline?
Stage 1 closes on 30 October 2026, and Stage 2 (by invitation) on 16 November 2026.
