Youth Challenge Fund 2023 for South African Youth-owned Businesses

Last Updated on April 4, 2023

Youth Challenge Fund 2023

The Youth Challenge Fund (YCF) is a youth start-up support programme intended to stimulate the establishment and growth of youth-owned businesses, promote digital skills, grow economy, and foster job creation.

Eligibility Criteria

In line with National Youth Policy, the YCF will be providing support to youth start-up businesses/enterprises that meet the following criteria:

  • Are between the ages of 18 to 35 years.
  • Registered with CIPC and be prepared to register with SARS & UIF.
  • 100% South African owned.
  • Are adequately involved in the day-to-day operation and management of the business with at least one or more of the members being full-time employees of the company, especially the majority shareholder or essential personnel/applicant.
  • Prepared to participate in Business Development Support and mentorship (pre and post).
  • Commercially viable, sustainable and feasible business idea.

Exclusions

The following transactions will NOT be considered:

  • Funding towards a debt owed by the applicant with another lending institution.
  • Activities that have already been funded by other government departments or parastatals.
  • Government and SOE officials are excluded.
  • Fall within the gambling, pyramid sales schemes, loan shark and operating illegal activities etc., as guided by credit policy and grant policies.
  • Have a record of fraud and corruption.
  • Where the owner/applicant is an un-rehabilitated insolvent.

Additional Information

  • Funding queries can be directed to YCF Hotline on 012 748 9600 or email: info@dsbd.gov.za/helpline@sefa.org.za
  • Upon receipt of the applications, they will be reviewed and completed applications subjected to due diligence exercises by sefa for consideration.
  • Follow-ups will be made with small enterprises whose funding applications are incomplete to submit the outstanding information.
  • Small enterprises that require non-financial support are referred to Seda for further handling.

How To Apply

Download the application form and submit it, with all required documentation to YCF@sefa.org.za.

Download the brochure below:

Youth-Challenge-Fund-Brochure.Pdf

Click Here To View The Programme Advert


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