South Africa
Call for Proposal
Call for Proposals
Mining

The Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), in partnership with the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), Space Infrastructure Hub (SIH) and South African National Space Agency (SANSA), is inviting applications for the Space Innovation Initiative Call for Proposals.

The call aims to strengthen South Africa's capabilities in Space Science and Technology by supporting the development and commercialisation of locally developed, sovereign space innovations.

The main technology focus is Remote Sensing and Earth Observation (EO) solutions that can provide evidence-based decision support across government, industry and society.

What the call is looking for

Proposed solutions should use Remote Sensing and Earth Observation technologies to address areas such as:

  • National service delivery
  • Mining and industrial modernisation
  • Agriculture
  • Energy sustainability
  • Infrastructure and spatial planning
  • Water and food security
  • Health sustainability
  • Disaster management

The aim is not simply to develop space technology, but to support solutions that can move toward adoption, commercialisation and real-world decision-making.

Why This Opportunity Matters

This call is particularly relevant for South African innovators developing technologies that turn satellite and Earth Observation data into practical products, services or decision-support tools.

The opportunity is looking for solutions that can:

  • Strengthen evidence-based decision-making.
  • Modernise industries through space-enabled technologies.
  • Address major socioeconomic challenges.
  • Develop and commercialise sovereign South African space innovations.
  • Support the growth of the South African Space Economy.
  • Contribute to the objectives of the DSTI STI Decadal Plan 2022–2032.

Who Can Apply?

Applications are open to recognised South African legal entities, including:

  • Start-up enterprises
  • Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs)
  • Science Councils
  • Universities
  • Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges

The call also specifically prioritises increased participation of black-owned and women-owned SMEs in the South African Space Economy.

Key Eligibility Requirements

Applicants should pay particular attention to these requirements:

  • The proposed technology must be directly aligned with the specified industries and thematic areas.
  • The proposal must demonstrate a feasible and sustainable business case with socioeconomic impact.
  • The technology must already be at proven prototype/MVP stage or TRL 4 or higher.
  • If the technology uses foreign-owned intellectual property, the applicant must provide evidence of an appropriate licensing agreement assigning the IP to the applicant.
  • Primary technology development activities must be conducted in South Africa.
  • Applicants must register for and attend a compulsory provincial briefing session.
  • Companies must be registered with CIPC and the National Treasury Central Supplier Database (CSD).

Important eligibility takeaway

This is not an idea-stage funding opportunity.

A strong applicant should already have a working prototype, MVP or technology at TRL 4+, together with a credible business case and a pathway towards commercialisation.

Priority Considerations

The assessment gives attention to:

  • Alignment with the DSTI Decadal Plan
  • Alignment with the Space Infrastructure Hub investment priorities
  • Alignment with the SANSA mandate
  • Ability to execute the project and commercialise the innovation
  • Strength of the value proposition and market opportunity
  • Expected socioeconomic impact
  • Novelty or localisation of core technologies
  • Co-funding contributions
  • Industry partnerships

Transformation is also prioritised, particularly applications involving:

  • Women-owned enterprises
  • Youth
  • Black-owned enterprises
  • Persons with disabilities
  • Applicants from underserved provinces

Deadline

31 August 2026 at 17:00

Late applications will not be considered.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted through the TIA funding portal.

Applicants must also comply with the compulsory provincial briefing requirement and RSVP for the relevant briefing session.

Individuals attending the compulsory briefing session must RSVP by completing the RSVP form: https://www.tia.org.za/space-call-rsvp/

Click HERE to visit the official website.

Closing date
Industry
Agriculture, forestry and fishing
​Mining and quarrying
Water supply; sewerage, waste management and remediation activities
​Information and communication
Professional, scientific and technical activities
Human health and social work activities
​Other service activities
Website link
https://www.tia.org.za/call-for-proposals-space-innovation-initiative/