Call for Applications: TIA Industry Seed Fund – Prototype Development for Eastern Cape Innovators (Extended Deadline: 31 January 2026)
Propella, as an implementing partner of the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), invites researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs and small, medium and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs based in the Eastern Cape) to apply for the TIA Industry Seed Fund.
The Industry Seed Fund is designed to support innovations that have successfully completed proof-of-concept validation and are ready to progress to prototype development, optimisation and real-world testing at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 5-6. The fund plays a critical role in enabling the transition from laboratory-validated concepts to functional, market-ready prototypes that can attract follow-on investment or advance toward commercialisation.
What the Fund Supports
The funding provides financial and technical support for activities that strengthen the commercial and technical viability of an innovation, including:
- Prototype development and optimisation
- Small-scale piloting and field testing
- Technology refinement based on market and user feedback
- Preparation for regulatory compliance, certification or further investment readiness
Priority Focus Areas
Applications are encouraged from projects aligned with the following priority areas:
- Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Modernisation
- Agri-Innovation and Food Security
- Digital Transformation
- Energy Sustainability and Environmental Innovation
- Health Innovation
Who Should Apply
This call is open to:
- Academic researchers
- Independent innovators
- Entrepreneurs and early-stage companies
- Registered SMEs based in the Eastern Cape
Applicants must demonstrate a validated proof-of-concept and the capability to advance their innovation toward a functional prototype suitable for real world application.
Application Requirements
To be considered, applicants must:
- Complete the online application form; and
- Download, complete and submit all mandatory supporting documents provided in the application link.
Please note that submission of the online form alone does not constitute a complete application. Only applications that include all required documentation submitted via email will be assessed.
Submission Instructions
Completed application documents must be emailed to grant@propellaincubator.co.za with the subject line:
“Industry Seed Fund - Applicant Full Name and Surname”
Please note Propella will close its office for holiday from 12 December 2025 and open 5 January 2026.
No late application will be accepted.
Click here to apply.