News / Funding and opportunities
Absa youth fund for black-owned early-stage businesses closes 31 October
Black-owned businesses run by 18 to 35 year olds can apply for Absa's non-repayable youth fund grants until 31 October 2026 at 23:59.
Key date passed. Confirm current information with the official source.
- Who it affects
- Black-owned early-stage businesses run by South Africans aged 18 to 35
- Closes
- 31 October 2026, 23:59
- Action
- Apply online through the link on Absa’s fund page before Saturday 31 October 2026 at 23:59
- Official source
- Absa: Absa Youth Entrepreneurship Fund
- Last checked
- 15 October 2026
What changed
Applications for the Absa Youth Entrepreneurship Fund (AYEF) opened on 29 September 2026 and close on Saturday 31 October 2026 at 23:59. Absa says late applications will not be accepted.
The fund gives grants, not loans. You do not repay them and Absa takes no share of your business. The grants are conditional and paid in phases as you meet agreed milestones. The Tshiamo Foundation runs the fund for Absa, and support covers businesses from an early idea through to start-up and early growth.
Who it affects
Black-owned, early-stage businesses run by South Africans aged 18 to 35, from a viable idea or early traction to a young business ready to grow. Absa says it wants founders who plan to employ other people.
What to do
- Read the eligibility and FAQ on Absa’s fund page, then apply with the online form linked there before 31 October 2026 at 23:59.
- Expect to commit to milestones and progress updates. Absa’s FAQ also describes a “Social Impact Payback”, such as mentoring other entrepreneurs.
- Absa expects to screen applications in November and December 2026 and confirm the group in January and February 2027.
- Do not pay anyone who offers to apply for you or to speed up a grant. Apply only through the link on Absa’s own page.
Where to find out more
Digitise SA does not charge to list opportunities and no genuine funder charges you to apply. If anyone asks you for money to apply or to release funding, do not pay.
This update is general information, checked against the official source on the date shown. It is not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules and dates can change, so confirm with the official source or a qualified adviser before you act.