EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity 2025: A Big Opportunity for Student Entrepreneurs in South Africa!

Do you have a brilliant business idea? Are you a student who’s passionate about solving problems in your community and making a difference? Then it’s time to shine. The EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity 2025 is officially open, and it’s calling on all university students across South Africa to step forward and make their dreams real.

What is the EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity?

The Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) initiative brings together students, universities, and business minds to boost entrepreneurship among young people in higher education. This intervarsity challenge is a yearly competition where students showcase their innovative ideas and existing businesses.

In 2025, 26 universities across 6 regions will take part. And there will be 1 winner who will walk away with R100 000 in prize money.

Whether you’re selling vetkoeks in your res, running a sneaker-cleaning hustle, or developing an app for your community — this platform is built for you.

Important Dates and Timeline

Here are some of the key dates to remember if you’re entering the competition:

You can view the full timeline and details at www.edhe.co.za

Theme for 2025: Entrepreneurship for Sustainability

This year’s theme is “Entrepreneurship for Sustainability”. EDHE wants to inspire young people to come up with green, innovative, and future-focused business ideas. Think about clean energy, recycling businesses, digital learning platforms, or anything that helps our communities live better, longer, and smarter.

Ask yourself:
“How can my business idea solve problems today and still make a difference tomorrow?”

Who Can Enter?

Any student registered at one of the 26 participating universities in South Africa can enter — whether you’re doing your first year or your PhD. All you need is:

• A passion for business
• A new business idea OR
• A current student-run business

What Do You Win?

The national winner receives:

• R100 000 cash prize
• National recognition
• Business mentorship and networking opportunities
• Support from EDHE and partners to grow your business

You’ll also get the chance to represent your university and province on a national stage.

How to Enter

To enter, follow these simple steps:

1. Visit www.edhe.co.za
2. Fill in the online entry form
3. Submit your pitch or business concept
4. If selected, prepare to pitch your idea in front of judges

Tip: Start preparing now. Think about your branding, your budget, and how your idea will change lives.

Why EDHE Matters

EDHE isn’t just a competition — it’s a movement. It helps build student entrepreneurs who are ready to face real-world challenges. Through training, networking, and support, EDHE is helping to develop the next generation of business leaders.

Universities benefit too. They can:

• Grow their entrepreneurial culture
• Support student-led businesses
• Contribute to solving national challenges

Related: Top 10 Must-Read Books for Career Growth and Success

Hear from Past Participants

“EDHE gave me the confidence to turn my business from just a school project into a real hustle.” — Mpho, 2023 Regional Finalist

“I never thought my sewing business could get this far. Now I’m supplying uniforms to local schools.” — Thandi, 2024 Intervarsity Winner

Partners That Make It Happen

This incredible journey is supported by:

• Universities South Africa (USAf)
• Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
• SAB Foundation
• UCDP (University Capacity Development Programme)
• Participating universities like WSU and many others

Final Word: The Hustle is Real – But So Is the Opportunity

If you’ve ever sold something, solved a problem, or had an idea that won’t leave your mind — then you are already an entrepreneur. All you need now is the right platform to take your idea from the campus to the country. That platform is EDHE Entrepreneurship Intervarsity 2025.

Entries are now open. Don’t wait. This is your time.