The Social Innovation Awards programme is aimed at entrepreneurs and social enterprises whose products, services or business models respond to real barriers faced by women, youth, people living in rural areas and persons with disabilities. They recognise innovators with prototypes or early-stage businesses tackling social challenges across sectors such as health, housing, rural livelihoods, energy, water and financial inclusion.

The awards offer funding, alongside tailored mentorship, technical support and business development assistance to help strengthen and scale early-stage ventures. 

Since 2015, the programme has invested over R88 million in funding and business development support, backing more than 200 innovators. These ventures collectively employ more than 4 000 people and support over 16 000 livelihoods.