South Africa: SA’s Engen opens applications for $67k startup pitching competition

South African petroleum company Engen has opened applications for its Pitch & Polish pitching competition, which will see 16 entrepreneurs compete for a first prize worth ZAR1 million (US$67,000).

Now in its 12th year, Pitch & Polish went fully virtual for the first time in 2021, when Cape-Town-based business partners Pieter du Plessis and Viljoen de Kock, owners of GUDGU, walked away with the first prize.

This year, the contest will again take place online, offering contestants access to a structured learning programme and their own business mentors. During the programme, the entrepreneurs will be supported as they hone and improve their pitches.

The winning company will secure a grand prize that includes ZAR650,000 (US$43,000) in cash and a ZAR350,000 (US$24,000) Raizcorp incubation bursary. Entrepreneurs from across South Africa who have a registered business can apply here until April 11.