TVET student entrepreneurs across South Africa are encouraged to enter the Entrepreneurship Inter-College 2026, a national competition aimed at developing, showcasing and supporting student-led business ideas and existing ventures.
The initiative is open to entrepreneurial-minded students enrolled at all 50 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges nationwide.
It is hosted by INSPIRE and seeks to provide a structured platform for young people to build entrepreneurial capacity through mentorship, feedback and access to industry networks.
Participants will compete in three categories; trade, technology and general business beginning at college level before progressing to regional rounds and ultimately national finals scheduled for September 2026.
INSPIRE Programme Lead for Higher Education Linda Lindani, said the initiative reflects a growing trend of students building businesses while pursuing their studies.
“Across South Africa, many TVET students are not only preparing for the workplace but also building businesses alongside their studies. The Entrepreneurship Inter-College creates a platform to recognise that potential and connect young entrepreneurs with opportunities to grow,” Lindani said.
The programme comes at a time when entrepreneurship is increasingly viewed as a viable pathway for young people to gain experience, generate income and create long-term opportunities.
Furthmore the 2025 competition winner, Rashaad Sambaba, founder of the Adult Education Institute and a student at False Bay TVET College, has encouraged prospective entrants to make use of the opportunity for exposure and growth.
“Students should enter because the competition offers valuable growth opportunities and meaningful exposure for both your brand and your business. It also pushes you beyond your comfort zone,” he said.
Sambaba added that his own success followed a year of preparation ahead of the 2025 competition.
“I entered in 2024 and I was so determined to be part of this initiative that I dedicated an entire year to developing my pitching skills and refining my business model in preparation for the 2025 competition,” he said.
Since winning, he said his business has expanded through increased resources, team growth and ongoing mentorship support.
“Since winning, we have been able to expand our team, invest in additional equipment such as computers for our staff, and furnish a classroom with tables and chairs. We have also benefited from ongoing mentorship, with access to various sessions led by experienced business owners,” he said.
In addition category winners will receive cash prizes, business development support and exposure to potential industry opportunities.
Applications for the Entrepreneurship Inter-College 2026 close on 17 April 2026, with internal college rounds scheduled for May to June, regional rounds in August and national finals in September 2026.
For more information or to submit entries, visit [https://inspirednet.co.za/inter-college/](https://inspirednet.co.za/inter-college/) and follow INSPIRE on Facebook and Instagram.
