United People Global (UPG) continues to create initiatives that equip people with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to turn ideas into meaningful action. Through the #UPGBiashara entrepreneurship programme, participants are supported through a structured learning journey designed to strengthen their entrepreneurial capacity and prepare them to build and grow businesses that can create value in their communities and beyond.
Following seven weeks of learning, entrepreneurs who meet the programme requirements become certified UPG Biashara entrepreneurs, with selected businesses advancing to Shark Tank, a pitching event that gives entrepreneurs the opportunity to present their businesses before a panel of judges.
With nominees from different parts of the world, the Shark Tank reflected the global reach and diversity of the UPG Biashara programme. Held from August 3 to 7 2026, the event brought together 20 UPG Biashara nominees, with four taking the stage each day to pitch their businesses before a panel of judges.
Picture highlight of the Shark tank event
Beyond presenting their ventures, the nominees responded to questions and received valuable feedback, creating deeper engagement with the ideas, solutions, and ventures they are developing. The event also offered a closer look at the impact UPG Biashara entrepreneurs are making in their communities, highlighting the value their businesses and initiatives are creating beyond the pitch itself.
The Diamonds Do Good®️ Entrepreneurship Grant
At the centre of this journey is the Diamonds Do Good®️ Entrepreneurship Grant, which provides an opportunity for selected entrepreneurs to receive financial support for their businesses.
The grant is an important part of the broader entrepreneurship ecosystem, connecting learning and capacity building with opportunities for entrepreneurs to strengthen and grow their ventures. Through the Shark Tank event, nominees have the opportunity not only to showcase their businesses but also to be considered for grant funding of up to $20,000 to support the continued development of their ventures.
The Shark Tank therefore serves as a significant stage in the DDG Entrepreneurship Grant process, bringing together the nominees, their ventures, and the opportunity for financial support that could help them move their businesses to the next level.
The Countdown to the Winners
With all 20 nominees having completed their pitches, the five-day Shark Tank has now come to a close. The next stage is the announcement of the grant recipients.
The winners of the DDG Entrepreneurship Grant will be announced on August 19, marking the culmination of this phase and revealing which entrepreneurs will receive funding to support the continued development of their businesses.
Until then, anticipation continues to build among the nominees and the wider UPG community.
From seven weeks of entrepreneurship learning and certification to a five-day pitching experience before a panel of judges, the journey has provided selected UPG Biashara entrepreneurs with another opportunity to learn, demonstrate their capacity, receive valuable feedback, and take a significant step toward advancing their ventures.
On August 19, the wait will be over as the DDG Entrepreneurship Grant recipients are revealed. #DiamondsDoGoodGrant
Meet the finalists
Learn more about DDG Grant
Learn more about #UPGBiashara
RSVP for Winner Announcement Event
