First National Bank (FNB) has joined forces with South Africa’s Sunday Times to host a pitch competition called Shark Tank in Kwazulu-Natal. The contest which is billed to take place in November will furnish winners with mentorship from Kwazulu’s leading business minds, media exposure and investment assistance of up to $12,000 (Rs. 150,000) from FNB.

According to Arde Greg – editor at Sunday Times, ”  The Sunday Times and FNB are putting their considerable muscle into this initiative. We need to encourage entrepreneurship in KwaZulu-Natal. The finalists will get great exposure through the Shark Tank. The winner will also get financial support and advertising resources that could make a real impact in driving a market for their business.”

Judging panel will include seasoned investors like Guy Brazier, the head of Deloitte in KZN; and FNB’s Preggie Pillay and others.

Being the second edition of contest, the Shark Tank is only open to South African entrepreneurs and will witness entrepreneurs pitching their business ideas and workability to a panel of investors with the hope of raising funds.

The contest holds in November. Entries close by the end of september 2015 and successful applicants are notified by the 20th of October.

Interested persons can register  here.