South Africa’s most promising entrepreneurs will converge in Johannesburg next month to pitch for millions in business funding at the 2025 South African Future Trust (SAFT) Summit, a national platform celebrating the innovation and resilience of the country’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs). As the headline sponsor, Standard Bank is standing alongside the SAFT in its mission to unlock opportunity for businesses driving the country’s growth.
Now in its third year, the two-day Summit, taking place on 5 and 6 November 2025 at the Sandton Convention Centre, will bring together more than 2 000 entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers and thought leaders. Shortlisted SMEs from across the country will pitch for a share of millions of rands in funding and development support, with the overall winner walking away with US $1 million (approximately R17.4 million as at 22/10/2025) in prize money.
In addition to its headline sponsorship, Standard Bank is also funding one category within the SAFT Awards, the Women in Business segment, which carries a R500,000 grand prize. This category recognises women entrepreneurs whose businesses are creating sustainable jobs, driving innovation and contributing to inclusive economic growth.
“For Standard Bank, this partnership reflects our broader purpose of driving Africa’s growth. One of the ways we do this, is through such partnerships that turn possibilities into opportunities for vibrant businesses that power the economy. The SAFT Summit is a celebration of that purpose in action, a moment to recognise the entrepreneurs whose ideas, courage and determination continue to move South Africa forward”, says Bill Blackie, CEO of Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank Group.
“Our relationship with Standard Bank has been defined by a shared urgency and purpose to build a better future for South Africa. From standing with us during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, to headline sponsoring the SAFT Summit, Standard Bank has remained a steadfast partner in our mission to unlock opportunities for entrepreneurs, recognising that small businesses are the driving force behind the South African economy”, says Jonathan Oppenheimer, Chairman of the South African Future Trust.
The partnership between SAFT and Standard Bank was forged during the Covid-19 pandemic, when both organisations moved swiftly to support struggling businesses. Together, they jointly provided R250 million in interest free loans to small, micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs) during Covid, supporting 3,500 small businesses and ensuring that 22,000 employees continued to receive an income during lockdown.
Earlier this year, SAFT and Standard Bank collaborated on the Kasi SME National Pitch Challenge, a nationwide initiative that identified and mentored township-based entrepreneurs with high-growth potential. The programme has already showcased how targeted support can help emerging businesses formalise, access markets and employ more people.
The bank’s transactional, lending, payment solutions and Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) programmes continue to support businesses across the continent as they start, manage and grow into resilient enterprises.
The two-day SAFT Summit will also feature panel discussions and live demonstrations from entrepreneurs tackling some of South Africa’s biggest economic challenges – from digital innovation and manufacturing to sustainable agriculture and energy solutions.
The 2025 SAFT Summit takes place on 5 and 6 November 2025 at the Sandton Convention Centre. More information is available on the SA Future Trust website HERE.
