CALL FOR APPLICATIONS: TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION SUPPORT PROGRAMME (TISP 2.0)
Through TISP 2.0, the RBIDZ seeks to develop a pipeline of technology-driven enterprises that can integrate into industrial value chains, support localisation and contribute to sustainable economic growth. The programme is therefore not only an innovation initiative, but also a pathway into industrial participation and market access within the SEZ environment.
ABOUT THE PROGRAMME
The Technology Innovation Support Programme (TISP) 2.0 is an 8-month technology commercialisation support programme led by the Richards Bay Industrial Development Zone Company SOC Ltd (RBIDZ), in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (KZN EDTEA), and implemented by SMPC Solutions. The programme is designed to support innovators in transforming their ideas into viable, market-ready solutions, while contributing to industrial development, enterprise growth, and innovation within the RBIDZ ecosystem and the broader King Cetshwayo District.
The programme will support participants across the following key areas:
- Idea generation and proof of concept development
- Prototype development, product design and field testing
- Intellectual property management
- Market assessment and validation
- Business model development
- Technology information and compliance support
- Access to specialised facilities for prototype development and testing
APPLICATION CRITERIA
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Have a technology-based idea, concept, or project
- Be an individual or team (early-stage or experienced entrepreneurs)
- Must reside in the King Cetshwayo District, KZN
- Demonstrate potential for innovation, feasibility and market application
- Be available and committed to actively participate throughout the 8-month programme
- Have an innovation that responds to key challenges in the following priority sectors: manufacturing, plastics, chemicals, ICT, agro-processing, or renewable energy.
PROGRAMME BENEFITS
Successful applicants will receive:
- Access to industry experts, mentors and technical specialists
- Support prototype development and product design
- Opportunity to test your innovation in real-world environments
- Guidance on intellectual property protection and compliance
- Support in business model development and market access
- Exposure to investors and funding opportunities
- Access to a network of innovation partners, institutions and industry players.
HOW TO APPLY
Click on the application link and submit your application online at https://platform.smpc.co.za/ OR copy the link in your URL browser and follow the prompts.
All applications must be submitted by 30 April 2026 at 23:59 (midnight). Late submissions will not be considered.
