The Old Mutual Foundation has announced the top 40 finalists for the fourth edition of the Old Mutual Sustainable, Economic and Empowerment Drive (OM SEED) under the theme ‘Rooted in Growth for Sustainability’.

This year marks the final chapter of the OM SEED journey, which continues to make a tangible impact on grassroots entrepreneurship in Namibia. 

The Foundation received an overwhelming 116 applications across the four targeted regions: Omaheke, Otjozondjupa, Omusati and Kunene, reflecting the strong entrepreneurial drive that exists in local communities.

The shortlisting evaluations were conducted on 16 July 2025 in collaboration with our strategic partner, the Financial Literacy Initiative (FLI) and our knowledge partner, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). 

Together, these partners played a critical role in ensuring the selection process upholds fairness, transparency and impact-driven standards.

“OM SEED embodies Old Mutual Foundation’s commitment to enabling economic participation through sustainable entrepreneurship. Under our Community Development pillar, we strive to create opportunities for inclusive growth, empowering individuals to transform ideas into businesses that uplift entire communities,” said Patricia Olivier, chairperson of the Old Mutual Foundation.

The initiative aims to bridge the gap between aspiration and action for grassroots entrepreneurs by offering seed capital, business training and access to mentorship. 

Through this programme, the foundation continues to invest in businesses that not only grow but also contribute to job creation and social development in Namibia.

The shortlisted entrepreneurs were selected from the Omaheke, Otjozondjupa, Omusati and Kunene regions. 

With the top 40 now identified, the next phase of OM SEED 4.0 begins. 

The foundation and its partners are expected to embark on regional business visits, where judges will meet the shortlisted entrepreneurs in person to assess their businesses and community impact. 

The journey kicks off in the Omaheke region, where local entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to showcase their businesses and share their visions for growth.

The excitement is building as we move closer to selecting the top 3 winners in each region, who will receive seed capital and participate in the incubation programme in Windhoek later this year.