2026 Award Category

MSMEs Owned By Persons
with Disabilities of the Year

Recognises MSMEs owned and managed by persons with disabilities, celebrating their entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and success in overcoming barriers to create thriving businesses.

Applications Close27 July 2026
Awards EveningJohannesburg
Entrepreneur in an inclusive and accessible workplace
Presidential MSME Awards
Diverse and inclusive team of professionals collaborating
Persons with Disabilities Category

Celebrating Resilience & Entrepreneurial Triumph

The MSMEs Owned By Persons with Disabilities Award shines a light on extraordinary entrepreneurs who have turned personal challenges into powerful business success stories — breaking through systemic barriers and building enterprises that serve as an inspiration to all South Africans.

Eligibility & Judging Criteria

  • Majority ownership and management by persons with disabilities
  • Demonstrated entrepreneurial resilience and success
  • Innovation in overcoming barriers to business development
  • Positive social and economic impact on communities
Judging Focus

What We're Looking For

Disability Inclusion

Advocating for and demonstrating that persons with disabilities are powerful economic contributors and business leaders.

Entrepreneurial Resilience

Overcoming systemic barriers to build and sustain successful, competitive enterprises in the market.

Breaking Barriers

Challenging perceptions and dismantling obstacles to create pathways for other persons with disabilities in business.

Business Success

Thriving enterprises that demonstrate profitability, growth, and lasting positive impact on communities.