First off, let’s be real. Funding doesn’t fall from the sky, but there are real opportunities out there if you know where to look. The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) offers grants for youth-owned businesses, and organisations like SEDA (Small Enterprise Development Agency) help with mentorship and business development support. You can also check out private options like EDGE Growth, who back small businesses that show potential.

Before you even apply for funding, make sure your foundation is solid. You’ll need a clear business plan, financial projections, and proof that your idea can work. That could be a prototype, early sales, or customer interest. Investors and grant committees want to see that you’ve done your homework and that their money will be used wisely.

Also, think about what type of funding makes sense for your stage. Grants are great if you qualify, but sometimes a small business loan or an angel investor might be a better fit. Don’t rush into giving up equity too early, because your ownership matters.

One thing I’ve learned building InternationalT is that persistence is everything. I’ve been rejected more than once, but each “no” helped me refine my pitch and get sharper on my numbers. Every setback is data, so use it.

At the end of the day, funding isn’t just about money; it’s about finding people who believe in your vision as much as you do. Stay ready, stay humble, and keep pushing. Your next “yes” could be the one that changes everything. See below for a helpful readiness template for young entrepreneurs, because being prepared is half the hustle!

For more resources, check out:

• NYDA Youth Grants
  
  
• SEDA Programmes
  
  
• SME South Africa’s funding guide

Zayn’s funding readiness template for young entrepreneurs

Because being prepared is half the hustle.

1. Who am I and what do I do?

• My name is: ______________________________________
  
  
• My business or project is called: ______________________________________
  
  
• In one line, my business does: ______________________________________
  (Example: We create eco-friendly stationery from recycled paper.)
  
  

2. What problem am I solving?

• The main problem my business solves is: ______________________________________
  
  
• Who experiences this problem (my target market): ______________________________________
  
  
• Why does it matter to fix this problem: ______________________________________
  
  

3. What’s my solution?

• My product/service helps people by: ______________________________________
  
  
• What makes my idea unique or better than others: ______________________________________
  
  
• Do I already have proof it works? (sales, feedback, prototype, etc.): ______________________________________
  
  

4. Why do I need funding?

• The total amount I’m requesting: R__________________
  
  
• I’ll use the funding for: ______________________________________
  (Be specific — e.g., equipment, stock, marketing, staff, training, etc.)
  
  

5. What’s in it for the funder?

• How this funding will create jobs, impact my community, or grow the economy: ______________________________________
  
  
• What I can offer in return (equity, reports, visibility, etc.): ______________________________________
  
  

6. My plan for growth

• Here’s how I plan to grow the business in the next 6–12 months: ______________________________________
  
  
• Here’s how I’ll track success: ______________________________________
  
  

7. My contact details

• Name: ______________________________________
  
  
• Phone: ______________________________________
  
  
• Email: ______________________________________
  
  
• Social media handles or website: ______________________________________
  
  

Pro tip from Zayn:
Before you send this off, research who you’re approaching. Tailor your message to their goals and use their language. Funders love clarity and confidence so show them you’ve done the work and that you believe in your idea.