Food Lover’s Market proudly announces the Top 10 cohort of the 2025 Seeds of Change Supplier Development Partnership, now in its fifth year of supporting and empowering small local businesses that drive real social change. What started as a bold vision to uplift social enterprises has grown into a thriving movement, equipping small businesses with the tools, mentorship, and market access they need to succeed.
The Application Process & Key Dates
The journey for potential suppliers began on 20 February 2025, when applications officially opened. A free-to-attend webinar was hosted on 04 March 2025, offering insights from industry experts and successful Seeds of Change alumni. Following the application closure on 07 April 2025, the Top 30 candidates were selected to participate in an exclusive two-day workshop with the Food Lover’s Market team and programme alumni.
On 16 May 2025, after rigorous evaluations, the Top 10 finalists were announced:
1. ZuZanna’s Wellness – Sugar-free jams, rusks, biscotti, and sauces.
2. Azowel Projects – Fresh produce including tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and herbs.
3. Cocoa Emporium Pty Ltd – Sugar-free chocolate.
4. Thekga Movement Pty Ltd – Water Hyacinth Biomass Briquettes/Eco Logs and Charcoal.
5. Tanolemon Pty LTD T/A Kustas – Sugar-free, preservative-free, and gluten-free health products.
6. Bee Safe Holdings – Date syrup.
7. Oya Foods – plant-based, healthy products, snacks, powders, sauces, infusions, and garnishes without any preservatives or additives.
8. Boland Naturals – Buckwheat crepes, flatbreads, granola, and flour.
9. Agrinouri – Gourmet chili based condiments, including creamy jalapeno, chili & garlic paste, and Chimichurri.
10. Mocheudi Farming – Peanut powders
A Legacy of Impact
Since launching Seeds of Change in 2021, Food Lover’s Market has seen 120 social entrepreneurs participate in the two-day online workshop, 41 finalists advanced to a week-long bootcamp in Cape Town, and 11 suppliers successfully listed in its stores. As of January 2025, the total purchasing value from these suppliers stands at R7 414 686.39.
“Our most successful suppliers to date include Chuck Chilli (assorted chilli pastes), Integrated Aquaculture (fresh Tilapia fish), and Home Bao (frozen dim sum),” says Terri Coppin-Harris, Colleague Engagement and Wellness Manager. “We are immensely proud of the impact this programme has had on emerging businesses and their communities.”
A Commitment to Purpose-Driven Business
“At Food Lover’s Market, we’re not just sourcing suppliers—we’re investing in changemakers,” says Coppin-Harris. “We seek businesses that share our commitment to nourishing communities and driving meaningful impact. Seeds of Change is more than a programme; it’s a launchpad for purpose-driven entrepreneurs to scale, innovate, and thrive.”
More Than Just a Supplier Programme
The Seeds of Change initiative focuses on businesses committed to ethical sourcing, sustainability, food security, and job creation. Whether it’s regenerative farming, artisanal food production, or innovative food solutions, Food Lover’s Market is committed to fostering partnerships that benefit both business and society.
Join Us on This Journey
The incredible Top 10 social businesses are now moving forward in the Seeds of Change journey. Next up is the five-day boot camp from 9 to12 June 2025, and the Fertile Ground pitching day on 13 June 2025.
