TVET entrepreneurs get national platform to shine
Aspiring student entrepreneurs across South Africa are being called to enter the Entrepreneurship Inter-College 2026, a national competition designed to nurture innovation and business growth within the TVET sector.
The competition is launched in Johannesburg, and the initiative invites students from all 50 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges to develop and present innovative business ideas.
The programme is hosted by INSPIRE and offers mentorship, industry exposure, and valuable networking opportunities.
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According to the programme lead, Linda Lindani, the competition reflects a growing trend of students pursuing entrepreneurship alongside their studies. “Across South Africa, many TVET students are not only preparing for the workplace but also building businesses alongside their studies,” she said.
Participants will compete at institutional level before advancing to regional rounds and ultimately the national finals. Categories include trade, technology, and general business.
Rashaad Sambaba, a previous winner, encouraged students to enter, highlighting how the competition enhanced his skills and expanded his business. “Students should enter because the competition offers valuable growth opportunities and meaningful exposure for both your brand and your business. It pushes you beyond your comfort zone,” he said.
He further noted that since his winning, they have expanded and their team have invested in equipment and learning spaces.
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Applications close on 17 April 2026, with winners set to receive cash prizes, business support, and industry exposure.
The competition will move through internal college rounds from May to June, followed by regional rounds in August and concluding with national finals in September 2026.
Aspiring entrepreneurs can apply at inspirednet.co.za/inter-college/.
