Wildcard Entries Open for the 2025 Nedbank Pitch & Polish Competition

Startups that missed the initial deadline for the 2025 Nedbank Pitch & Polish Competition now have a second chance. Wildcard entries are officially open, allowing one entrepreneur to bypass the first two rounds and advance directly to the final, where they will face off against the top two finalists.  

The Pitch & Polish competition, powered by Nedbank and Raizcorp, offers 16 entrepreneurs the opportunity to compete for a R1 million prize package. The second-place winner will walk away with R100,000, while third place will receive R20,000. The programme is more than just a pitch competition—it’s an entrepreneurial development journey.

Each participant begins with a two-day bootcamp, receiving hands-on training and mentorship from Raizcorp’s expert team. Contestants are divided into four groups - red, blue, green, and yellow - and must pitch their way to the top two positions in their group to move forward. 

Additionally, the competition offers access to valuable pitching resources, including lessons, podcasts and video content.

In round 2, the remaining competitors go head-to-head, with only one from each group advancing to the semi-final. At this stage, the wildcard entry joins the top two, competing for a coveted spot in the final showdown.

Wildcard applications are now open. Interested entrepreneurs can apply [here]