#foodsystem
Enabling inclusive South African food systems by supporting social innovation
Connect, collaborate, and access a network of mentors, business experts, and food innovators transforming the food system for good.
OUR MISSION
Our #foodsystems program is a 9-month-incubation journey aiming to promote and catalyze transformative entrepreneurship while unleashing the potential of social entrepreneurs in their development of innovative solutions that address food system issues and challenges in South Africa. The program uses a systems thinking approach to enable the development of social enterprises.
We place a strong focus on supporting women and youth, equipping them with the tools, mentorship, and networks they need to thrive as leaders in the food systems space. By prioritizing gender equity and youth empowerment, we aim to inspire and uplift emerging voices in social entrepreneurship, ensuring that diverse perspectives shape the future of sustainable food systems in our country.
The #FoodSystems Program aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Zero Hunger (SDG 2), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12) and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17).
Incubation Framework
Targeting 30+ social entrepreneurs at various stages of business development and across different parts of the agri-food value chain, we guide these entrepreneurs through a tailored incubation journey comprised of 3 distinct phases developed based on our Trust Model.
Incubation Methodology
Access to Inclusive Financing (Up to R100 000 in Grant Funding)
Access and exposure to ecosystem of +100 entrepreneurs and mentors
Access to expert
consulting services
Required commitment from entrepreneurs:
Takes up to 4 hours a week
Peer to Peer Space
Masterclass
Oribi Coaching + Goals setting
Selection Process
We have a 3-STEP selection process, which includes an Application form, whereafter 50+ social entrepreneurs are shortlisted to participate in a 4-6 week innovation challenge - known as the #BridgingtheGaps (#BTG) Challenge. The challenge is aimed at identifying the most innovative solutions while assessing their dedication, commitment, and social entrepreneurial potential.
#BTG Innovation Challenge also catalyzes the connection of partners, experts, and entrepreneurs in South Africa's food systems to bridge knowledge gaps in the Agri-Food value chain, social entrepreneurship, and business modeling. Interventions include hosting weekly workshops, webinars, peer-to-peer sessions, and providing online resources to bridge the gaps.
PHASE #1 - IDEATION, MINDSET & CAPACITY BUILDING
Focusing on the Trust Yourself element of Oribi’s Trust Model.
Defining and Refining your social business model and product-market-fit.
PHASE #2 - PRODUCT-MARKET FIT & ROAD-TO-MARKET
Focusing on the Trust Your Solution element of our Trust Model.
Support Services to develop your Communications, Marketing and Impact Strategies as well as working on an implementation plan for better and broader access to Markets.
PHASE #3 - FUNDING & SCALE READINESS
Support services to strengthen capacity for scale, develop your investment strategy, understand the funding landscape and further develop your pitching capabilities
Selection Criteria
- Early-stage social enterprise and/or non-profits (6m - 3yrs)
- High potential to create social economic and environmental value/impact
- Well-tested ideas with validated proof of concept or in operation for less than 3 years
- Proven capacity/track record to generate revenue
- Strong willingness to integrate women and/or youth in value chain and business operations
- Incubation Readiness and Strong Entrepreneurial Mindset
Our Applications Are Now Open!
Our Community
Our food systems blog offers a closer look at the program and showcases the innovative solutions our participants are developing to address critical food challenges in South Africa. Check out their stories to learn more about their experiences, insights, and the positive impact they’re creating within their communities.
