Absa Bank / Tshiamo Foundation
OpenAbsa Youth Entrepreneurship Fund (AYEF)
Always verify eligibility and deadlines on the official source before applying.
Funding amount
Amount determined per milestone phase
A milestone-based grant programme for young South African entrepreneurs, launched 26 June 2026. AYEF provides phased, non-repayable grant funding — no repayment, no equity taken. Open to entrepreneurs from idea stage and informal traders through to established small businesses. Funded through a partnership between Absa and the Tshiamo Foundation.
Who qualifies
South African citizen aged 18 to 35. Open to entrepreneurs at all stages — from a business idea to informal trading to an established small business. No CIPC registration required at time of application. Funding is milestone-based and non-repayable. No equity is taken. Priority given to black-owned ventures with job-creation potential. Applications open August 2026 via the Absa website.
What to prepare
Have these ready before you apply.
- South African ID document
- Brief business idea or pitch description
- Proof of informal trading activity where applicable
Always verify eligibility and deadlines on the official source before applying.