Apply now for The Pitch UCT

Calling all student entrepreneurs: Do you have an exciting, new business idea? Or do you have an existing business but are looking for ways and funds to scale it? Look no further – applications for The Pitch UCT 2024 are now open.

The Pitch UCT, currently in its ninth year, is a student-led competition that seeks to encourage a culture of entrepreneurship among students at the University of Cape Town (UCT). The programme has now grown to a fully-fledged incubator since its inception in 2016.

At the programme’s forefront is the Academic Representatives’ Council (ARC) in partnership with the Office of the Vice-Chancellor. As a student-led programme, The Pitch not only empowers student entrepreneurs by giving them an opportunity to sharpen their business concepts, but it also allows student leaders to cultivate their leadership skills.

Finalists’ business ideas will be judged at the final workshop – not only on the market need and viability of each of the business ventures, but also on the skills and experience possessed by the team members and the innovation exhibited by the entrepreneurs.

Prizes

The top three pitches are awarded cash prizes (R25 000 for first place, R15 000 for second place and R10 000 for third place), a six-month business mentorship from the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation, as well as tickets to attend the foundation’s annual Jamboree.

Applications close on 23 April at 23:59.

Apply for The Pitch UCT.

Contact The Pitch UCT for any questions or queries.