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From dorm room to boardroom Nedbank is giving young entrepreneurs aged 18-26 the funding, mentorship and global platform to turn potential into progress.

Every great idea starts with potential. But turning it into impact requires the right opportunity to grow.

That opportunity is back.

Nedbank has officially opened entries for the 2026 YouthX Awards inviting ambitious young South Africans aged 18 to 26 to share their ideas and unlock their entrepreneurial potential.

Whether your next big business idea was born in a university residence, a township community, a garage workshop or as a late-night spark captured on your phone YouthX is where it can grow.

More than just an awards initiative, YouthX by Nedbank is a full entrepreneurial ecosystem designed to turn potential into progress. By combining funding with mentorship, financial education, business support and access to real opportunities, YouthX gives young people the tools, connections and confidence to build sustainable businesses.

Whether you’re building a business, solving a community challenge, creating a product or developing an innovative solution, YouthX is built to help you take your next big step.

“We believe South Africa’s young people already have the ideas, creativity and ambition to shape the future. YouthX by Nedbank is about helping them unlock their potential by giving them the confidence, support and opportunities to turn their ideas into action,” says Elwin Smith, Head of Group Sponsorships and Events at Nedbank.

What’s Up For Grabs?

This year’s winners will walk away with more than just prize money. Winners will receive:

• Cash prizes to grow their business
• Mentorship through Nedbank’s enterprise development team
• Financial literacy training and guidance from Nedbank financial advisers
• Long-term business support and networking opportunities

And for the top 3 winners up for grabs is a career-defining opportunity to attend the prestigious One Young World Summit, joining a global community of young leaders driving positive change.

How to Enter

Ready to unlock your X?

Young entrepreneurs can enter by visiting the YouthX website, submitting their idea or existing venture, sharing how YouthX can help unlock their potential and providing supporting material that brings their vision to life.

Key Dates:
Entries Open: 14 August 2026
Entries Close: 9 October 2026
Winners Announced: 21 November 2026 at the YouthX Awards

Finalists will go through a rigorous judging process before pitching their ideas to an independent panel.

Every successful business starts with an idea. Now it’s time to unlock yours.

Unlock your X and take your idea from potential to possibility.