Deadline: April 1, 2026
Applications are open for the Seeds of Change Supplier Development Partnership 2026. This year the Seeds of Change Supplier Development Partnership marks its 6th year of fostering meaningful partnerships with small local businesses that are making a real difference in their communities. What began as a bold vision to support social enterprises has blossomed into a passionate campaign that empowers businesses driven by purpose, sustainability, and social change.
At its core, Seeds of Change is more than just a supplier development programme – it is a commitment to investing in local businesses that uplift their communities. By partnering with small enterprises that share their mission to nourish and enrich lives, they provide them with the tools, mentorship, and market access needed to scale their impact. These businesses are not only suppliers; they are changemakers who address food security, environmental sustainability, and job creation in South Africa.
Eligibility
To qualify, businesses should positively impact their communities and add value to the Food Lover’s Market shopping experience. Smallholder farmers, food surplus management, commercial services, sustainable packaging solutions, and produce and products within in-store departments such as bakery, confectionery, groceries, and liquor are encouraged to apply.
Requirements include:
- being operational for 12 months
- showing financial stability
- having a business plan showcasing successful implementation
Shortlisting process
The shortlisting process includes a review of applications by the Food Lover’s Market Seeds of Change team to refine the list of applicants to 30 candidates. These shortlisted candidates will join Food Lover’s Market for a two-day webinar to share with you what makes a successful business.
Seeds of Change ends in an intensive, immersive bootcamp that asks a lot of your time, focus, and energy.
The content of the workshop comprises:
- Hearing from Food Lover’s Market buyers, industry experts, Seeds of Change alumni (sharing their experiences, the benefits of the programme, etc.) and various guest speakers
- Covering topics such as finance, marketing, business planning, business models
- Group activities
- Tools, tips, tricks and solid advice on how to elevate your business.
- The two-day workshop aims to share value, even for those who don’t make the top 10. It is to give you the knowledge to take your business forward, regardless of the competition.
Final shortlisting
Based on assignments submitted by the top 30, the top 10 candidates are selected and are invited to a five-day boot camp in Cape Town. It is a challenging week that can push you outside your comfort zone and requires full commitment from start to finish. Be prepared!
The content of the boot camp comprises:
- Engage in sessions with the Food Lover’s Market buying and marketing teams.
- Hear insights into local and global retail trends.
- Have a face-to-face with Food Lover’s Market CEO, Brian Coppin about his retail journey and the Food Lover’s Market story.
- Be part of a Fertile Ground final business pitching day – an opportunity to implement the boot camp learning, showcase the passion you have for your business and your vision, and pitch your business to a panel of Food Lover’s Market experts
- On the same day the winner, who will be listed as a supplier to Food Lover’s Market, will be announced.
Application
For more information, visit Seeds of Change Supplier Development Partnership.
