Township Economy Awards closing soon

Township entrepreneurs from across South Africa are being invited to enter the third annual Township Economy Awards, which recognise businesses making a positive impact through job creation, innovation and economic growth.

Entries are now open for the national awards, with applications closing on Wednesday, 7 October 2026.

The awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, 21 November 2026 in Thembisa, Ekurhuleni, following the eighth annual Township Economy Summit, which will be held from 19 to 20 November.

This year’s awards introduce a new Township Brand of the Year category, which will recognise a brand that has earned trust, relevance and a lasting impact in township communities. The winner will be selected by the judging panel.

TEA founder Bulelani Balabala said township businesses continue to create products, jobs and business opportunities despite challenges.

“Township businesses are not waiting to be included. They are creating products, jobs, supply chains and solutions every day. The Township Economy Awards exist to put that excellence on a national stage and to connect it with the markets, capital and partnerships required for scale,” he said.

According to TEA, last year’s awards attracted more than 3,000 entries from across the country, with 45 finalists selected in 14 business categories. Nineteen winners were recognised and shared R150,000 in prize money.

The organisation said the awards campaign generated an estimated R16 million in media and public relations value while supporting 53 Black-owned suppliers involved in staging the event.

Entrepreneurs can enter categories including retail, professional services, food and beverage, technology and innovation, construction, green economy, transport and logistics, manufacturing, agriculture, health and wellness, creative industries and social impact.

Special honours will also recognise the Youth Entrepreneur of the Year, Female Entrepreneur of the Year, Male Entrepreneur of the Year, Township Brand of the Year, Township Economy Champion Award and Lifetime Achievement Award.

The awards form part of the Township Economy Summit, which is expected to attract more than 2,500 entrepreneurs, over 150 exhibitors, government representatives, investors and corporate leaders.

Held under the theme “An Inclusive Economic Future: The Digital Edition”, the summit will focus on digital transformation, manufacturing, mobility and logistics, and retail opportunities in township economies.

Summit attendance is free, subject to registration and venue capacity, while the awards ceremony is a separately ticketed event.

Entrepreneurs can submit entries and view the eligibility criteria at www.townshipeconomyawards.co.za before the closing date of 7 October 2026.