G20 Tech Challenge - Finalists
And the Winners Are...
The six winning MSMEs were recognised for their exceptional innovation, scalability, and measurable socio-economic impact. Each solution directly responds to national priorities, spanning water security, financial inclusion, healthcare innovation, digital resilience, dignified work, and education efficiency.
1st
ROC Water Technologies
Prize: R1 000 000
Johannes P. Maree
Pipe Freeze Crystallisation (PFC) technology transforms toxic acid mine drainage into drinking-quality water and valuable by-products.
2nd
Kasi Money
Prize: R750 000
Thami H.
Digital banking and payment services for informal sector workers, gig workers, freelancers, and traders with irregular incomes.
3rd
Ortho-Design
Prize: R500 000
Dian Peach, Tim Peach, Jonine Moller, Emma West
Biomedical engineering company producing affordable, high-quality orthopaedic and sports medicine implants locally in SA.
4th
Snode Technologies
Prize: R250 000
Nithen Naidoo, Dwain Muller, Stephan Krynauw
Advanced cybersecurity threat management platform that proactively identifies, isolates, and neutralises cyber threats.
5th
SweepSouth
Prize: R250 000
Lourandi Kriel, Luke Kannemeyer, Rishka Matthews, Aisha Pandor
Digital marketplace transforming access to dignified domestic work and essential home services with fair pay and protections.
6th
The Marking App Africa
Prize: R250 000
Kabelo Mahlobogwane
EdTech solution using AI and OCR to automate marking of handwritten exams, reducing teacher workload.
What’s Next: Accelerating Innovation
The SA Tech Challenge 2025 provides its category winners with both catalytic financial grants and comprehensive, ongoing non-financial support.
Post-Award Process and Support:
Formalised Grant Allocation
Following the awards, CSIR Group Executive Dr. Kaven Naidoo and DSTI Acting Deputy Director-General Dr Kenny Tenza led the formalisation of prize allocations with each of the six winners.
Continued Non-Financial Support
The formal programme concluded in 2025, but non-financial support from collaborating government agencies and partners remains ongoing, providing winners with visibility, credibility, and networks for scaling impact.
In partnership with
