What is the Seeds of Change process? 

Food Lover’s Market invites ambitious South African social enterprises to enter online with their company details, a video and an impact statement. From the applicants, 30 finalists are chosen to join Food Lover’s Market and Social Enterprise Academy (SEA)  for a 2-day webinar. 

The 2-day webinar

The content of the workshop comprises of:

• Hearing from FLM 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
• How can we help you elevate your business?

The purpose of the 2-day workshop is to share value, even for those who don’t make the top 10. It is to give you the skills, tips and knowledge to take forward into the future of your business, regardless of the competition. Attendees are asked to submit assignments to enter the final shortlisting of 10 applicants. 

The four-day bootcamp 

The final shortlist of 10 Seeds of Change applicants are invited to Cape Town to attend a 4-day game-changing bootcamp. Here they are given opportunities to speak with buyers, build networks with industry and fellow participant and spend time with the executive team of Food Lover’s Market. 

The four-day boot camp includes insights from our CEO, Brian Coppin, on the challenges of growing a business, face-to-face workshops with our buyers and guidance from specialists across Food Lover’s Market.

•  Sessions with buyers
• Sessions with marketing teams,
• Insights into retail trends
• Talk with FLM CEO to hear his insights and the Food Lover’s Market story
• FINAL PITCH DAY – opportunity to take all you have learned throughout the workshops and bootcamp, use all your passion you have for your business and your vision, and pitch your business to a panel of FLM executives.
• Same-day announcement of winner – who will be listed as a supplier of Food Lover’s Market.

What does a small business need to qualify for Seeds of Change?

To qualify, businesses should positively impact their communities and add value to the Food Lover’s Market shopping experience. Smallholder farmers, freight businesses, commercial services, and produce and products that sit 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
• and having a business plan showcasing successful implementation



The Food Lover’s Market Commitment

At Food Lover’s Market, our purpose is to ‘nourish and enrich lives.’ We are committed to finding social and environmental entrepreneurs with products that delight our customers. We feel all ten of our applicants share these values, creating impact through their businesses.

Any questions about applying for Seeds of Change?

Please complete this query form, and one of our facilitators will be in touch to assist you.