The Takealot Group, in partnership with the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), has launched the 2026 Takealot TIA Local Innovation Challenge, ‘Made Local’.
South Africa has a wealth of innovative, locally manufactured products, with many entrepreneurs already building businesses and selling to consumers online. However, for local manufacturers, turning an established product into a sustainable, scalable business can present a different set of challenges.
The Made Local challenge is designed to help existing Takealot sellers who manufacture locally to unlock their growth potential through specialised e-commerce training, mentoring and practical experience.
The initiative offers a 10-week hybrid accelerator programme that connects 20 shortlisted entrepreneurs with expert-led training, high-level mentorship, and an opportunity to grow their businesses, increase their sales and reach millions of shoppers across South Africa through the Takealot Marketplace.
“South Africa doesn’t have an innovation problem; every day, entrepreneurs across the country are creating products with the potential to become household names,” says Frederick Zietsman, CEO of the Takealot Group. “What many need is the right support, skills and networks to turn a great product into a scalable, successful business. Through Made Local, we are helping local manufacturers build on the opportunity they already have, giving them the tools and expertise to grow their businesses,” he adds.
The Challenge is open to SMEs that have been operating for more than one year, are existing sellers on Takealot, and produce select locally manufactured consumer products.
Made Local winners will be determined by their business performance and participation throughout the Challenge. Success is measured by sales generated on takealot.com during the live sales phase, customer ratings of their products, and their participation and performance throughout the 10-week accelerator.
The top three overall performers will share a R1,7-million prize pool, with R1-million awarded to the winner, R500 000 to the runner-up, and R200 000 to the third-place winner.
Tshepo Marumule, Takealot group executive for public policy and external affairs, emphasises the broader socio-economic impact of the initiative, highlighting the importance of collaboration between government, private enterprise, and the entrepreneurial ecosystem in overcoming barriers to the growth of local businesses.
“Our partnership with TIA is a powerful example of how we can unlock inclusive economic growth and drive local manufacturing through innovation,” he adds.
The application window closes on 20 September 2026. To enter, entrepreneurs should visit https://www.takealot.com/takealot-made-local-challenge