Call for Proposal - Space Innovations
The Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) is calling for the submission of funding applications for the Space Innovation Initiative. The Space Innovation Initiative is a strategic initiative by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), Space Infrastructure Hub (SIH), which is the large-scale investment and supporting interventions to grow Space Science capabilities and infrastructure for sustainable development and growth of the South African Space economy. The Space Innovation call aims to strengthen the local capabilities in Space.
Science and technology; through supporting the development and commercialisation of innovative space technologies to create products and services that will benefit South Africa. Solutions supported by this call are expected to advance the space industry development by extending the current efforts of the Space Infrastructure Hub to include investing in the development and commercialisation of innovative solutions that will respond to national challenges and grow the participation of black owned small and medium enterprises that will contribute toward the transformation and growth of the South African space economy. Applications are invited from any recognised South African legal entity, including start-up companies, small, medium and micro enterprises, private enterprise, science councils and higher education institutions.
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
Applications will be assessed against the following:
- Alignment with the strategic priorities outlined in the Decadal Plan on Science, Technology and Innovation and Space Infrastructure Hub investment
- Novelty of the proposed innovation
- Capability to commercialise the innovation
- Understanding of the market need
- Socioeconomic impact
- Suitability and capacity of the team to execute the project plan.
- Localisation of core/key technologies
Applications must be submitted on the following portal: https://funding.tia.org.za/gateway. Late applications will not be accepted.
COMPULSORY BRIEFING SESSION
A compulsory briefing session will be conducted on Microsoft Teams (link will be shared upon RSVP) to facilitate and assist applicants in understanding the call requirements. The briefing session will take place on 18 September 2024 from 10h00 to 12h00.
Individuals who will be attending the compulsory briefing session must send a confirmation email to customerservice@tia.org.za no later than 16 September 2024.