National Bursary for Job-Generating Entrepreneurs 2026 (Fully Funded)
The National Bursary for Job-Generating Entrepreneurs 2026 supports young South African entrepreneurs whose businesses or enterprises have the potential to create significant employment opportunities. Selected recipients will attend the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town from 3–6 November 2026 with a fully funded place, travel, accommodation, meals, mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to the Action Accelerator. The application deadline is 1 September 2026.
Quick Overview
Programme: National Bursary for Job-Generating Entrepreneurs
Opportunity Type: Bursary
Organizer: One Young World
Country: South Africa
Location: Cape Town
Summit Dates: 3–6 November 2026
Funding: Fully funded place with travel, accommodation, meals, and additional programme benefits
Deadline: 1 September 2026
About the National Bursary for Job-Generating Entrepreneurs
One Young World created the National Bursary for Job-Generating Entrepreneurs as part of its legacy commitment connected to the 2026 Summit in Cape Town.
The programme focuses on South Africa’s youth unemployment challenge and supports young entrepreneurs whose businesses can contribute to employment, livelihoods, and job creation.
Selected entrepreneurs will join the One Young World Summit 2026 and connect with a global community of more than 20,000 young leaders across 190+ countries.
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What the Programme Offers
The programme is designed to help participants strengthen their enterprises while connecting them with relevant networks and expertise.
Participants can:
• Connect with One Young World’s global network of 20,000+ young leaders in 190+ countries
• Access Ambassador opportunities, including speaking events, regional networking, and mentoring
• Develop their understanding of solutions to youth unemployment
• Strengthen their capacity to scale their enterprise as a generator of employment opportunities
Benefits and Financial Coverage
All bursary recipients receive support to participate in the One Young World Summit and related programme activities.
✓ Fully funded place at the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town
✓ Return travel to Cape Town
✓ Private-room hotel accommodation in Cape Town from 2–7 November 2026 inclusive
✓ Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on conference days
✓ Participation in the One Young World Action Accelerator
✓ Lifelong membership in the One Young World Ambassador Community
✓ Networking and mentorship opportunities with senior figures in the South African start-up ecosystem
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Demo Day and Mentorship
Bursary recipients receive access to a Demo Day, which is designed as a networking event where entrepreneurs can connect with potential investors, develop partnerships, and improve market access.
The programme also provides mentorship from senior and established figures across the South African start-up ecosystem. Mentors can provide guidance and facilitate access to new opportunities.
Action Accelerator
All bursary recipients are invited to participate in One Young World’s annual Action Accelerator after the Summit.
The programme is intended to help participants turn ideas into practical action and take steps toward scaling their enterprises.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
• Be between 18 and 30 years old
• Be a national of South Africa
• Be resident in South Africa
• Lead a business or enterprise with the potential for significant job creation
• Hold direct decision-making authority within the organisation or company
• Be available to participate in the One Young World Summit from 3–6 November 2026
One Young World notes that most Summit delegates are between 18 and 30. Candidates older than 30 may be considered when they demonstrate appropriate personal impact, initiative, and willingness to engage. Applicants who will be under 18 at the time of the Summit cannot be accepted.
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One Young World Summit 2026
Successful bursary recipients will participate in the One Young World Summit 2026, taking place in Cape Town, South Africa, from 3–6 November 2026.
Recipients will also become lifelong members of the One Young World Ambassador Community, which includes more than 20,000 members across 190+ countries.
Important Dates
• Opening Date: 11 August 2026
• Application Deadline: 1 September 2026
• Hotel Accommodation: 2–7 November 2026 inclusive
• One Young World Summit: 3–6 November 2026
Official Link
Review the official programme details and follow the application instructions provided on the official page.
View the Official National Bursary for Job-Generating Entrepreneurs Page
