Earlier today the South African government opened up the Grassroots Innovation Programme as a call for proposals went out to the public.
Between now and 31st March 2023 anyone can submit a proposal as long as they are a South African citizen, have full ownership of the product / idea being pitched and they are not the recipient of any similar programme to help development. A commitment of 24 months is required and students in higher education are encouraged to get involved.
An additional criteria for applicants is meeting the definition of a “grassroots innovator” which is explained below.
“The Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) an entity of the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) is calling for applications 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’,” an announcement reads.
More specifics of what is included here is listed under the support package offering:
- Intellectual Property registration
- Industry compliance and certification
- Product and technical development expertise, design prototyping infrastructure and hard/
software materials - Production of a prototype
- Business development training and support
- Networking, mentorship and market access activities
More information about the Grassroots Innovation Programme can be found in this two page PDF published by the TIA.
We highly recommend that all applicants give this a read closely, especially the fundable and non-fundable activities which are support by the programme. These will impact what types of proposals can be properly supported especially when it comes to matters of money.
[Image – athree23 on Pixabay]
