Transforming the innovation landscape in Southern Africa

Botswana

Innovation is the backbone of economic growth and social progress, and the Innovation Bridge Portal has positioned itself as a transformative force in the Southern African innovation ecosystem. This ground-breaking digital platform, launched under the auspices of the South African Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) and the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD), empowers innovators, entrepreneurs and investors to connect, collaborate and thrive in a competitive global market.

By offering a cohesive platform in an often fragmented and hyperactive ecosystem, the Innovation Bridge Portal creates a clear sense of direction and purpose, enabling stakeholders to navigate challenges, identify opportunities and accelerate their journeys. It serves as a vital catalyst, linking innovative solutions with market needs and fostering an environment where transformative ideas can scale rapidly. 

Through its dynamic features, such as resource sharing, matchmaking tools and knowledge dissemination, the portal not only bridges the gap between ideas and implementation but also drives a culture of sustained innovation and inclusive growth across the region.

Bridging innovation and opportunity

The Innovation Bridge Portal serves as a dynamic hub for innovators, entrepreneurs, investors, and ecosystem supporters across the region. It was designed to foster connections that propel ideas from concept to commercial reality. By providing users with access to licencing opportunities, funding mechanisms, co-development partnerships and market insights, the platform ensures that promising innovations reach their full potential.

Since its inception in 2018, the portal has empowered over 9 935 users by 2024, demonstrating a remarkable 220% growth in registrations since 2021. The portal not only fosters collaboration but also serves as a treasure trove of resources, with a database containing over 450 events and opportunities and a rich library of articles, newsletters, success stories and thought leadership content.

A partnership for success

The success of the portal is rooted in strong collaborations. Spearheaded by the DSTI and DSBD, the initiative benefits from the support of key international and local partners, including:

  • The World Bank Group: Partnering to enhance regional entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystems;
  • Companies and Intellectual Property Commission: Assisting with regulatory frameworks;
  • European Union: Co-funding the initiative through the Ecosystems Development for Small Enterprises programme; and the
  • National Intellectual Property Management Office (Implementation of Practice Note 4.2 of 2021): Facilitating the identification, protection, and commercialisation of intellectual property.

These partnerships underscore the portal’s goal of bridging gaps in the ecosystem and fostering a robust environment for innovation-led growth.

Creating impact through initiatives

The Innovation Bridge Portal has hosted several high-impact initiatives aimed at empowering innovators and entrepreneurs, such as, but not limited to:

  1. Corporate innovation challenge: Facilitated collaboration between 12 corporates and 12 startups, driving pilot projects and creating economic opportunities.
  2. AgTech challenge: Showcased groundbreaking agricultural technology solutions, with over 70% of participants being women-led startups.
  3. Fintech challenge: Awarded grants to ten startups addressing financial inclusion in underserved communities.

These initiatives have led to tangible outcomes, including investment readiness coaching, market access and enhanced business development for participants.

Driving digital engagement and awareness

The portal’s impact is not confined to its user base; it also thrives on digital engagement. Its active presence on social media platforms has amplified its reach, with 44 campaigns executed in the past two years and a total of 14 media articles featured on the portal. Moreover, the platform has featured/participated in 26 events, further cementing its position as a pivotal player in the innovation landscape.

A vision for the future

The portal envisions a future where the innovation ecosystem is seamlessly interconnected. By continuously enhancing its platform and fostering collaborations, it aims to be the "one-stop portal" for innovators, entrepreneurs, support organisations and investors. Upcoming initiatives will focus on expanding partnerships, scaling impact and leveraging digital tools to enable real-time connections and support.

Join the movement

With a vision to create a sustainable and inclusive innovation ecosystem, the Innovation Bridge Portal invites all stakeholders to be part of its journey. Whether you are an entrepreneur seeking funding, an innovator ready to commercialise your ideas, or an investor looking for groundbreaking opportunities, the portal is your bridge to success.

To learn more, visit www.innovationbridge.info or connect with the community on social media. LinkedIn: The Innovation Bridge Portal

Facebook: Innovation Bridge Portal

Twitter (X): @bridge_portal 

 

Together, let us innovate, connect and grow!

Innovation Bridge Portal