Savant, a Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) Seed Fund implementing partner, has announced the opening of funding applications for early-stage technology projects. Building on eight years of facilitating funding and support, Savant is now accepting proposals for its Pre-Seed and Seed Fund initiatives.
The Pre-Seed Fund targets projects in the early stages of development, focusing on proof-of-concept studies, prototype development, and market research. This funding, capped at R800,000 including VAT, aims to propel innovations to a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 3 or 4, with a project duration of 12 to 18 months.
The Seed Fund, offering up to R1,200,000 including VAT for projects with a 12 to 24-month duration, is designed for applicants who have successfully completed a pre-seed funding project. It supports the development of a minimum viable product (MVP) ready for piloting and market testing, targeting technologies at TRL 5 or 6.
In related news, the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), an entity of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), is celebrating the growth of clean technology entrepreneurship in South Africa through its support of the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (GCIP-SA).
Implemented in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) and funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), GCIP-SA has supported over 200 innovators since 2014. These initiatives focus on reducing environmental impact and promoting resource efficiency, vital for addressing climate change and fostering a sustainable economy.
“TIA is committed to building a sustainable and inclusive economy through innovation,” stated Vusi Skosana, Head Technology Stations & Manager of GCIP at TIA. “Through initiatives like GCIP-SA, we are supporting the acceleration of innovative solutions and enabling entrepreneurs by equipping them with the tools and networks needed to commercialise solutions that will shape South Africa’s green future.”
TIA is actively expanding the GCIP model by onboarding implementing partners to increase reach and impact across South Africa, leveraging the expertise within the ecosystem to support a broader range of cleantech initiatives.
