SAB Foundation celebrates South Africa’s leading social innovators
From township stokvels investing in small businesses to canes designed and manufactured by blind artisans, South African entrepreneurs are showing how innovation can transform lives.
This spirit of ingenuity was celebrated at the SAB Foundation Social Innovation and Disability Empowerment Awards 2025, held in Johannesburg on 14 October, where Sum1 Investments and White Cane were named the overall winners.
Transforming savings and mobility
Sum1 Investments took first place in the Social Innovation category for its asset-financing model that enables stokvels to grow their savings by investing directly in township and rural small businesses.
In joint second place, The Marking App and Drizzle Health were recognised for improving access to affordable education technology and advancing medical device design.
Jobox and The Surgical Assistant shared third place for developing innovations that open pathways for youth employment and enhance surgical precision in hospitals.
In the Disability Empowerment category, White Cane was named the overall winner for producing South Africa’s first locally manufactured folding and rigid canes made by blind and partially sighted people.
Rural Area Power Wheelchair took second place for its durable, low-cost mobility solution designed for rough terrain in rural areas, while Disability Orientated Radio Station earned third place for creating a fully accessible broadcasting platform led by people with disabilities.
A celebration of purpose and progress
The awards, established by the SAB Foundation, recognise entrepreneurs developing practical solutions to social challenges and improving the lives of people with disabilities.
This year, more than R18.5 million in grant funding was awarded to the winners, alongside mentorship, business training, and access to networks of funders and industry experts.
“Our finalists and winners are showing what it means to turn bold ideas into sustainable businesses that change lives,” said Sarah Mthintso, Executive Director of the SAB Foundation. “Through tailored support and funding, we’re helping them grow their impact and reach more people across South Africa.”
Zoleka Lisa, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at SAB, added: “The work of the SAB Foundation stands as one of the most meaningful expressions of our heritage, particularly in our 130th year. These entrepreneurs show that when we invest in local talent, we unlock innovation that uplifts communities and strengthens our country.”
The audience also had their say through the Audience Choice Award, which went to Tap-Fi for providing affordable, uncapped Wi-Fi to underserved communities through a shared-connection model.
Building a legacy of innovation
Since its inception in 2010, the SAB Foundation has invested more than R88.9 million in nearly 203 social innovators, supporting enterprises that have created jobs and long-term social impact across South Africa.
Social Innovation Awards
First: Sum1 Investments
Joint second: The Marking App and Drizzle Health
Joint third: Jobox and The Surgical Assistant
Excellence Awards
The Sparks Impact Fellowship; Indent Tonometer Device and Platform; Utlwa Collective.
Special Recognition
AgriGuru Africa, Community Digital Empowerment Initiative, Kioni Women Microenterprises, Nappertoir Eco Cement, NuroZA, Qwili, Rhiza Babuyile Crop Hub, Tap-Fi, Webmax.
Disability Empowerment Awards
First: White Cane
Second: Rural Area Power Wheelchair
Third: Disability Orientated Radio Station
Fourth: Inspyre – Khaya Health
Special Recognition
Digital Assistive Technology Hub, Monate Sensory Flavours Training, OAPD Economic Empowerment Project.
As South Africa continues to navigate complex social and economic challenges, these innovators stand as proof that homegrown ideas can drive sustainable progress and inclusive growth.
Find out more at www.sabfoundation.co.za/social-innovation-awards.
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