About

About Funding Organization: Orange Corners is an initiative of the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs that supports young entrepreneurs in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. The program provides training, mentorship, networking opportunities, funding, and facilities to help entrepreneurs start and scale their businesses, aiming to foster sustainable and inclusive economic growth. Additional Benefits: Participants gain access to: Business Acceleration: Structured programs to develop and implement growth plans. Coaching and Mentoring: Guidance from experienced mentors and industry leaders. Networking Opportunities: Connections with potential partners and investors. Post-Acceleration Support: Ongoing assistance to ensure sustainable growth. Interested entrepreneurs should apply through the specific country's Orange Corners program website during the designated application periods. The process typically involves submitting an online application form, followed by a selection process that may include a bootcamp and pitch competition.

Eligibility

• Age requirement: must be between 18-35 years old at time of application (age verification required). Citizenship/residency: must be national or legal resident of programme country. Some programmes have specific geographic focus within countries (check country-specific requirements). Business stage: programmes accept range from early concept stage to existing businesses seeking scale; must have innovative business idea or existing early-stage business; some programmes require demonstrated business history and traction (e.g., South Africa Designs requires existing business with demonstrable history). Commitment: must demonstrate commitment, creativity, and passion for problem-solving through entrepreneurship; must be willing to fully participate throughout entire programme duration (6-12 months); must commit to attending all workshops, masterclasses, coaching sessions; must be available for in-person and/or virtual sessions as required. Business ownership: business must be owned and/or managed by applicant entrepreneur; for existing businesses, applicant must be primary decision-maker. Innovation and impact: business concept must demonstrate innovation or unique approach; must address one or more UN Sustainable Development Goals; must show potential for measurable social, economic, or environmental impact; must be viable and commercially sustainable. Technical requirements: access to reliable internet connection (especially for virtual components); ability to communicate fluently in English (some programmes accept local languages); access to stable electricity supply for virtual participation. Application requirements: completed application form with all required fields; business pitch deck outlining idea, problem statement, target market, financial projections; recent CV or résumé; valid identification (national ID, driver's licence, or passport); additional documents may be required depending on programme. Incomplete or late applications not considered. Selection competitive based on innovation, feasibility, impact potential, team capability, and alignment with programme objectives. Multi-stage selection process with shortlisting, interviews, and pitch competitions.