The Ventures Foundation by Sanlam Private Wealth provides exactly this. More than a design competition, it is a development platform built around expert insight. Finalists work directly with leaders across design, business and creative entrepreneurship – mentors who bring strategic clarity, rigorous creative feedback and the commercial perspective early-stage designers need to grow.

How it works

Twelve designers will embark on a series of masterclasses, after which five will progress to an intensive mentorship phase crafted around their unique trajectory. One finalist will be accompanied by a mentor to Maison&Objet in Paris, one of the world’s leading design fairs, gaining rare exposure to international markets and networks.

A brief rooted in Africa’s quiet luxury

Applicants are invited to design a luxury textile piece – prototyped as a rug – that reimagines African luxury as refined, timeless and material-led. Alongside craftsmanship, the focus will also be on entrepreneurial ambition and readiness to scale.

Mentors and partners

The expert panel includes influential voices shaping contemporary African design and business: Tracy Lee Lynch (Clout/SA), Laurie Wiid van Heerden (Wiid Design), Mpho Vackier (TheUrbanative), Zizipho Poswa (Imiso), Charl Edwards (Lookbook Studios) and business strategist Claude Morris, alongside Sanlam Private Wealth’s own investment expertise represented by Lentsoane Lekalakala. 

The Craft & Design Institute (CDI) joins as development partner, drawing on decades of experience supporting creative enterprises into new markets.

A journey designed for growth

As a finalist, your experience will be shaped by hands-on, personalised engagement:

  • Masterclasses that explore creative excellence and business capability.
  • One-on-one mentorship tailored to your studio, goals and challenges – covering everything from pricing and production to brand positioning and market entry.
  • Real-time feedback from seasoned practitioners who understand both artistry and enterprise.

This support aims to help designers move from producing standout pieces to building resilient, scalable brands.

Entries now open

If you have a distinct point of view, an active studio and ambition to grow, this is your opportunity to turn craft into legacy.


Visit sanlamprivatewealth.com for details. Entries close 15 March 2026.