About the Circular Innovation Challenge 2026
Organized by V&A Solve in partnership with The Vikãra Institute, this challenge invites changemakers across Southern Africa to transform waste into opportunity. It offers pioneering entrepreneurs a real-world testing ground and financial backing to scale solutions that protect our planet and uplift local communities.
Who Can Apply?
-
Location: Innovators based in Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, or Zimbabwe.
-
Stage: Startups past the idea phase with a working prototype ready for real-world testing.
-
Focus: Groundbreaking products, services, or technologies that drive circularity, job creation, and sustainability.
What the Winner Receives
-
R250,000 in direct cash investment.
-
R100,000 in tailored mentorship and training.
-
A live pilot at Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, exposing your solution to over 26 million annual visitors.
-
Industry connections and extensive media coverage across partner channels.
(All finalists receive 1:1 pitch mentoring, travel and accommodation subsidies to Cape Town, and a platform to pitch live at the Market Systems Symposium.)
Key Dates to Remember
-
Applications Close: September 20, 2026
-
Live Pitching Event: October 21, 2026
For more information on how to apply and eligibility criteria (click here)
