By Maile Matsimela
Aspiring potato farmers, here’s an opportunity to turn your agricultural dreams into viable commercial enterprises. Potatoes South Africa has officially opened applications for its Enterprise Development Programme for the 2026–’27 financial year,
The programme is built on four key pillars that work together to support the development of well-rounded, commercially successful farmers. It begins with production input support, where participants receive certified seed potatoes each year through an innovative 25% downscaling model. This approach allows farmers to start with high-quality inputs while gradually assuming more financial responsibility for their farming operations.
Business Skills and Market Access
Mentorship is a cornerstone of the programme, offering continuous technical and business support to help participants become commercially ready. The focus extends beyond simply growing potatoes – farmers also learn to understand the business side of agriculture, including crop management, financial planning and market dynamics.
The programme places strong emphasis on industry exposure and hands-on training. Participants benefit from practical learning experiences that go beyond the farms gate, gaining valuable insights through demonstrations, networking events and industry engagements. These opportunities help farmers understand the full potato value chain, from production to market access.
Ready to Apply? Here’s How
For farmers ready to take their potato production to the next level, the application process is straightforward. Interested farmers can apply via the Potatoes South Africa website or contact the organisation directly on 012 349 1906. The closing date is 29 August 2025.
