Nedbank, one of South Africa’s leading financial institutions, has officially opened applications for the 15th edition of its highly regarded Pitch & Polish competition. This initiative provides ambitious business owners across South Africa with a unique opportunity to compete for a substantial prize valued at ZAR1 million (approximately US$50,000).
Over the past 15 years, the Nedbank Pitch & Polish competition has successfully equipped more than 11,000 entrepreneurs with essential skills, mentorship, and exposure necessary to refine their business pitches. The program aims to enhance participants’ chances of securing funding and elevating their businesses to new heights.
This year, a select group of 16 entrepreneurs will be chosen from a vast pool of applicants, each vying for the coveted prize. These finalists will compete through multiple elimination rounds, during which they will have the opportunity to refine their business pitches with the guidance of expert mentors from the renowned incubator, Raizcorp.
Allon Raiz, CEO of Raizcorp, emphasized the multifaceted nature of the competition, stating;
Pitch & Polish, despite its name, is not just a pitching competition – it is that and a whole lot more. It is a door to new markets, massive business exposure, new friends, potential investment, incredible learning, lots of fun, and – of course – the ZAR1 million in prizes, which includes ZAR650,000 (US$33,000) in cash. Pitch & Polish is a game changer for so many of the people who enter, whether they win or simply participate.
Entrepreneurs interested in taking part in this transformative experience can submit their applications until April 13. This competition not only serves as a platform for aspiring business owners to showcase their ideas but also fosters a supportive community that encourages growth and innovation within South Africa’s entrepreneurial landscape.
