Winners of the Standard Bank Inclusive Excellence Awards 2026

The 2026 Standard Bank Inclusive Excellence Awards 2026 brought together some of the most inspiring entrepreneurs across South Africa—each one redefining what it means to build a business with purpose. Hosted by Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking, the event celebrated SMEs owned and led by people with disabilities while reinforcing the importance of inclusive economic participation.

More than just recognition, the awards platform continues to open doors connecting entrepreneurs to funding networks and growth opportunities that can transform their businesses and communities. With a total prize pool of R400,000 the initiative reflects a strong commitment to enabling long-term sustainability and impact.

This year’s winners represent a diverse range of industries each contributing uniquely to economic development and social change:

The Agriculture Award was awarded to Setlogong Project 2 (Pty) Ltd, a Limpopo-based poultry farming enterprise producing broiler chickens for local markets. Beyond its commercial operations the business is actively empowering people with disabilities in rural communities through agriculture.

In the Arts & Culture category Me4uTalented Studios (Pty) Ltd from QwaQwa in the Free State was recognised for its work in film theatre and cultural production. The company plays a key role in developing emerging artists while driving meaningful community engagement through storytelling.

The Innovative Business Award went to Umba Creative Service a Gauteng-based consulting and creative agency helping organisations build more inclusive workplaces through strategy design and storytelling. Its work extends beyond business influencing broader conversations around accessibility and inclusion.

Seated by Jenkie took top honours in the Manufacturing category. Based in Gauteng the company produces locally made outdoor and patio cushions as well as décor supplying national retailers through a growing e-commerce model.

The Community Champion of the Year Award was presented to Renature (Pty) Ltd trading as Eully’s Cakery. This Gauteng-based enterprise supports township and rural bakers by providing access to baking supplies and skills development creating pathways for small-scale entrepreneurs to grow.

In the special Youth Achievement category Abundance Solutions from the Eastern Cape was recognised for its work in marketing public relations and business development. As a youth-led business it places strong emphasis on skills development and creating employment opportunities for young people.

Taking the top honour as the Overall Winner of the Standard Bank Inclusive Excellence Awards 2026 was Esisipho K (Pty) Ltd an agricultural enterprise based in KwaZulu-Natal. The company focuses on both crop and livestock farming contributing to food security while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

The judging process prioritised businesses that are formally registered and actively operating with a strong alignment to South Africa’s development priorities. Judges also evaluated how clearly each business articulated its goals and demonstrated alignment with the broader purpose of the awards.

Ultimately the event served as a powerful reminder that inclusion is not just a moral imperative it is a driver of innovation resilience and economic growth. Through initiatives like this Standard Bank continues to champion a more inclusive and sustainable future for African entrepreneurship.