FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is Nedbank ReNEW?
ReNEW is a circular economy accelerator that supports youth-led and youth-focused businesses addressing unemployment and environmental degradation.
Who are the partners?
ReNEW is managed by Impact Amplifier, funded by the Nedbank Foundation, and delivered in partnership with Circular South Africa.
Recording of information session
Who can apply?
- Focused on waste-related circular solutions such as recycling, reuse, upcycling or waste-to-product models
- Asset-light and financially sustainable
- Able to operate profitably in low-income communities
- Committed to inclusive growth and environmental resilience
- At least 51% South African-owned
- Headquartered in South Africa
- Led by at least one full-time founder or CEO
- Youth-led or women-led businesses are especially encouraged to apply
What are the selection criteria?
- Stage: Post-revenue, with commercial potential
- Sectors: All sectors in the circular economy are welcome
- Impact: Clear potential to create jobs for youth and women, and address environmental degradation
- Team: At least one full-time founder or CEO
- Ownership: Minimum 51% South African ownership
- Geography: Strong interest in entrepreneurs from underserved provinces
- Prepare a 2 min video innovation pitch
How much money should I apply for?
Apply for the money you need, given your stage and what growth milestones you need to achieve. Don’t automatically apply for the most amount of money, unless you are clear on what you need to achieve with it.
What support will businesses in the programme receive?
- There is a combination of group acceleration through virtual sessions, and one-on-one mentorship support over six months.
- Access to funding of between R100,000 up to R1,000,000 for selected/successful ventures, and deployed in milestone driven tranches over 6-12 months.
- Practical business support from Nedbank including banking services, insurance and SME tools.
When is the application deadline?
Thursday, 23 October 2025. If you miss the deadline, you cannot apply.
When should I ideally apply?
As early as possible. Our team will be reviewing applications continuously up to the deadline. Don’t leave it to the last day.
If I’m unsuccessful through applying, will I be provided with a personalized reason?
No, given the sheer volume of applications the programme will receive, this won’t be possible. However, decisions are made relative to the strength of the applicants.
If I’m successful entering the accelerator programme, will I automatically be guaranteed funding?
No, there is a limited amount of funding available, and those receiving funding will be the strongest cases put forward during the course of the accelerator programme.