The Department has issued a call for proposals for the establishment and management of sector innovation funds.

The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation supports industry innovation partnerships as part of broader government efforts to strengthen industry competitiveness. The call aims to create an enabling environment for government and industry to co-invest in research, development and innovation (RDI) in key economic sectors.

Structured innovation partnerships are intended to encourage greater industry participation and co-funding in RDI. These partnerships should respond to local needs and, where relevant, support growth in export market share.

Who may apply

Industry associations or formations representing economic sectors or sub-sectors are invited to submit partnership proposals for the establishment and management of a sector innovation fund for their sector or sub-sector.

Application process

Briefing session

Interested potential partners are invited to attend a non-compulsory virtual briefing session at 14:00 on 30 September 2026. The session will cover the application process, as well as the management, governance and operations of the sector innovation funds.

Please register your interest in attending the briefing by emailing Thihangwi.Mudzanani@dsti.gov.za.

Closing date

Submissions close on Friday, 30 October 2026, at 24:00. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Enquiries

Ms Sunita Kalan at sunita.kalan@dsti.gov.za.

Mr Thihangwi Mudzanani at thihangwi.mudzanani@dsti.gov.za.