The stage is set, the lights are dimmed, and anticipation is building, South Africa’s premier tech celebration is back! Mark your calendars for October 25, 2025, as the EPF Tech Awards return for their third and most spectacular edition yet.
Bigger, bolder, and more impactful than ever, this year’s event will take centre stage at the iconic Sandton Convention Centre, bringing together the brightest minds in technology to celebrate innovation, excellence, and the future of South Africa’s ICT sector.
More than an awards ahow: a movement for change
Dubbed the “Tech Oscars” of South Africa, the EPF Tech Awards go beyond just recognising excellence, they amplify opportunities, elevate young entrepreneurs, and spotlight the game-changers redefining our digital landscape.
From trailblasing startups to established industry pioneers, the awards honour exceptional achievements across multiple categories, recognising those who are pushing boundaries, driving social impact, and shaping the future of technology in South Africa.
“This isn’t just an awards event, it’s a launchpad,” says Joanna Govender, CEO of the EPF Tech Fund. “It’s where young tech entrepreneurs and innovators gain the exposure, connections, and recognition that can propel their careers forward.
“We’re here to celebrate the visionaries shaping the future of South Africa’s tech industry.”
Empowering youth, driving innovation
Since 2016, the Empire Partner Foundation (EPF) has been a driving force behind youth development in technology, investing in young talent and equipping them with the skills, networks, and resources to thrive in the ICT sector.
With a laser focus on homegrown innovation, EPF has played a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of tech leaders, ensuring that young South Africans have access to the opportunities needed to turn ideas into impactful solutions.
The EPF Tech Awards serve as the pinnacle of this mission: a national platform where the best of South Africa’s tech ecosystem, from all nine provinces, come together to compete, collaborate, and showcase their brilliance.
“We’re not just acknowledging achievements; we’re fueling growth,” adds Govender. “By creating this platform, we’re fostering a dynamic and competitive tech ecosystem that empowers young talent, drives entrepreneurship, and positions South Africa as a global leader in innovation.”
