According to Mining Weekly, the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), associated with the Department of Science and Innovation, has extended an invitation to innovators to seek funding. The aim? To promote and advance innovative developments in natural resource and energy sectors.
Primary areas of focus include water and sanitation, especially the digitization of water and wastewater treatment facilities. The innovation call also covers aspects of the circular economy. This encompasses initiatives like waste-to-energy projects and alternatives to conventional packaging to reduce plastic consumption. In the mining and minerals domain, there’s a pronounced focus on fostering technologies that enhance mineral beneficiation and mining digitization. The overarching objective? Promoting a reduced carbon footprint.
Load shedding has become a pressing issue for South Africa, and TIA acknowledges its significance. Hence, they are keen on technologies addressing the aftermath of load shedding. Innovations under consideration include microgrids, smart grids, energy management systems, and solar technologies. The initiative also highlights decarbonization, e-mobility, hydrogen, fuel cells, and lithium-ion battery solutions.
Eligible applicants span a broad spectrum: startups in South Africa, SMEs, private individuals, higher education institutions, and other legally recognized bodies.
What’s required? The proposed innovations should focus on energy or natural resources, be economically viable, present a sustainable business model, and have a positive socio-economic impact with a confirmed proof of concept.
Critical eligibility criteria emphasize that applicants should be South African citizens or undertake a significant portion of their tech development within South Africa. They should also be registered with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission or the National Treasury’s Central Supplier Database.
An essential step in the application process is attending a compulsory briefing session scheduled via Teams on September 27 and 28 for different regions. Those interested in attending must RSVP by emailing customerservice@tia.org.za by September 26. The submission deadline is October 13, accessible via their official website.
For enthusiasts eager to redefine the boundaries of technology in natural resources and energy, this presents a golden opportunity. As South Africa grapples with its distinct challenges, innovations in these sectors could be the transformational solution the country seeks.
