Call for Proposals: Grassroots Innovation Programme (South Africa)

Deadline: 15 December 2023

The Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) an entity of the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) is calling for proposals from grassroots innovators looking for funding, technical assistance and support for developing a new product or process up to prototype and proof of concept stage.

A grassroots innovator is defined as “an individual who undertakes innovations to solve local challenges using local resources and capabilities through working outside the realm of formal innovation institution”.

Eligible Activities

Development and production of fully functional prototypes of product innovations responding to social challenges.
Skills training and business development incubation and mentorship.
Specialised equipment that is within the budget constraints and required to enable innovation activities.
Introduction of a proof of concept where a viable business case can be demonstrated.
Registration of new enterprises or attaining compliance of already registered enterprises.
Registration of intellectual property rights, copyright and trademark protection and licensing.
Personal and travelling stipend to the innovators in support of the development of their innovation.

Who can apply?

South African citizens of any age (ID copy required).
Individual (or representing a team) with an innovative solution that solves a clear social problem.
Individuals must meet the criteria of a grassroots innovator.
Have full ownership of the Intellectual Property and rights to the proposed solution.
Applicants who do not have ready access to innovation development support, infrastructure, funding or training.
Is willing to commit time to the programme activities for a maximum period of 24 months.

Ineligible Activities