Entrepreneurship Bursaries in South Africa Available in 2026
Find on this page a List of Entrepreneurship Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026. Are you an ambitious South African student with innovative ideas, leadership skills, and a passion for building businesses? If you dream of becoming an entrepreneur but face financial challenges, applying for an Entrepreneurship bursary for the 2026/2027 academic year could be the opportunity that helps you turn your vision into reality. With South Africa’s economy relying heavily on entrepreneurship to drive innovation, create jobs, and support economic growth, there is an increasing demand for skilled and educated entrepreneurs. Fortunately, many institutions, government programmes, and private organizations are offering Entrepreneurship bursaries in South Africa for 2026, providing essential financial support to students who want to develop their entrepreneurial potential and make an impact in the business world.
What Is Entrepreneurship?
Entrepreneurship is the process of creating, developing, and managing a business venture in order to generate profit, solve problems, or provide innovative solutions to society. It involves identifying opportunities, taking risks, managing resources, and driving growth through creativity and resilience. Entrepreneurship goes beyond starting a business—it also promotes leadership, critical thinking, and sustainable development, making it one of the most influential drivers of South Africa’s future economy.
Major Fields of Entrepreneurship Studies
In South Africa, Entrepreneurship studies include a wide range of specializations that equip students with the skills needed to launch and manage businesses successfully, such as:
- Small Business Management: Training to run and grow small enterprises.
- Innovation and Product Development: Developing new business ideas, products, and services.
- Social Entrepreneurship: Building businesses that address social and environmental challenges.
- Business Finance & Investment: Understanding funding, venture capital, and financial management.
- Digital Entrepreneurship: Focusing on online businesses, e-commerce, and technology-driven ventures.
- Enterprise Development: Supporting emerging entrepreneurs and growing enterprises.
- Leadership and Strategy: Developing leadership and decision-making skills for sustainable business growth.
Career Opportunities in Entrepreneurship in South Africa
Graduates with an Entrepreneurship qualification are not limited to one career path but instead have the flexibility to create and lead ventures across industries. Career opportunities include:
- Business Founder/Owner
- Startup Entrepreneur
- Social Entrepreneur
- Business Consultant
- Innovation Manager
- Project Manager
- Venture Capital or Investment Analyst
- Business Development Specialist
Entrepreneurs also play a key role in South Africa’s development by creating employment opportunities, driving innovation, and contributing to economic transformation.
Why Apply for Entrepreneurship Bursaries in 2026?
Pursuing studies in Entrepreneurship and business-related fields can be financially demanding, with costs such as tuition fees, study materials, technology resources, and accommodation. Luckily, a number of government initiatives, corporate sponsors, and private organizations are offering Entrepreneurship bursaries in South Africa for 2026/2027. These bursaries often cover tuition and related study expenses while also providing mentorship, training, incubation support, and opportunities to access business networks and funding.
Applying for an Entrepreneurship bursary not only provides financial relief but also positions you for long-term success by connecting you to opportunities that can help grow your ideas into thriving businesses.
List of Entrepreneurship Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026
Below, you will find the list of Entrepreneurship bursaries in South Africa for 2026, offered by leading organizations, government departments, and private sector partners. Each listing outlines eligibility criteria, supported fields of study, application instructions, and closing dates to guide you in securing your future as a successful entrepreneur.
Black Management Forum (BMF) Bursary
Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET) Bursary
North West Provincial Government Bursaries
