The Old Mutual Foundation has increased the prize money for its SEED: Seasons programme to N$650 000, supporting 15 entrepreneurs across five categories in Namibia. This move follows the strong interest and quality of applications received. The programme, part of the Old Mutual Sustainable Economic Empowerment Drive (OM SEED), aims to equip entrepreneurs with knowledge, skills, and resources to build sustainable enterprises.
The expanded prize structure will award a first-, second-, and third-place winner in each of the five categories: SEED Level Up, SEED Green, SEED Play, SEED Made, and SEED Manufacturing. These categories recognise entrepreneurs working in youth entrepreneurship, environmental sustainability, sport and fitness, creative industries, and manufacturing. The prize allocation per category is N$130 000, with 1st Place receiving N$60 000, 2nd Place N$40 000, and 3rd Place N$30 000.
Mignon du Preez, Old Mutual Namibia group marketing, public affairs, and sustainability executive, expressed enthusiasm for the response to OM SEED: Seasons, highlighting the breadth of entrepreneurial talent across Namibia. The applications and business concepts received inspired the foundation to broaden the prize structure, supporting more entrepreneurs and celebrating their contributions to their communities.
The Old Mutual Foundation established OM SEED to empower entrepreneurs and grassroots businesses with the necessary tools to build sustainable enterprises. By providing financial support, knowledge, skills, and mentorship, the programme aims to make a positive impact on the Namibian economy. Entrepreneurs from all 14 regions are encouraged to apply, with application forms available at selected Old Mutual branches or by scanning the QR code on the company's social media platforms.
Applications for OM SEED: Seasons close on 30 October 2026. The programme's expanded prize structure demonstrates the Old Mutual Foundation's commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and economic growth in Namibia. By recognising and rewarding entrepreneurs in various sectors, the foundation hopes to inspire innovation and job creation.
The five categories of OM SEED: Seasons are designed to promote diverse entrepreneurial ventures. SEED Level Up focuses on youth entrepreneurship, while SEED Green emphasises environmental sustainability. SEED Play supports sport and fitness initiatives, SEED Made promotes the creative industries, and SEED Manufacturing recognises entrepreneurs in the manufacturing sector.
The increased prize money and expanded categories demonstrate the Old Mutual Foundation's dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and economic development in Namibia. With the application deadline approaching, entrepreneurs are urged to submit their applications and take advantage of this opportunity to grow their businesses and contribute to the country's economic growth.
Key points
- The Old Mutual SEED: Seasons programme has increased its prize money to N$650 000 to support 15 entrepreneurs across five categories in Namibia.
