Call for Proposals: Grassroots Innovation Programme

The Grassroots Innovation Programme, led by the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), is a nationwide call to action for South African citizens with innovative solutions designed to address urgent social needs in their communities. This opportunity is tailored for homegrown problem-solvers—individuals or small teams who often lack access to traditional innovation infrastructure, funding, or mentorship.

Who Can Apply:

• Any South African citizen (no age restriction) applying either as an individual or representing a team.
• Applicants must be “grassroots innovators” people developing solutions independently, outside of formal research or innovation institutions.
• You must have full ownership of the Intellectual Property (IP) or rights to your proposed solution.
• Applicants who currently do not have access to formal innovation development support, infrastructure, funding, or training.
• Willing to dedicate time to the programme’s activities, which run for up to 24 months.

Minimum Requirements:

• Your solution must be at the concept stage ready for ideation, development, and prototyping.
• The innovation must demonstrate creative use of technology and robust problem-solving for a clear social need.
• Technical and financial feasibility for developing the solution must be evident.
• You must clearly describe the potential social impact and targeted market or community.
• Applicants must show that the innovation can eventually be commercialised.

Support Package on Offer:
Successful applicants will receive:

• Intellectual Property (IP) registration and support.
• Industry compliance and certification guidance.
• Product and technical development expertise, including access to design, prototyping infrastructure, and hardware/software materials.
• Assistance in producing a working prototype.
• Business development training and support, plus exposure to networking, mentorship, and market access activities.

Non-Fundable Activities:
The programme does not support:

• Salaries/stipends for team members beyond the primary applicant.
• Routine operational activities unrelated to the innovation project.
• Licenses for replicating existing external innovations.
• Research projects, basis of research institutions, or organisations.
• Student bursaries, standard academic research, or new infrastructure development.

How to Apply:

• Complete and sign the GIP Application Form (available on the TIA website) and include a certified copy of your ID.
• Submit your application via email to grassroots.innovation@tia.org.za by 17h00 on 15 December 2025.
• For queries: grassroots.innovation@tia.org.za | 012 472 2829 / 2701
• Learn more: www.tia.org.za