Innovative individuals or small businesses are encouraged to sign up for the Step-Up Technology Innovation Competition and have their technology innovations evaluated and, if selected, to be assisted with access to support programmes.
These include:
- Introductions to investors and venture capital funds
- Consideration for TIA innovation and business support funding and non-financial support Introduction to short or long term mentors relevant to your industry and business
- Exposure to the range of DTI and DST incentive programmes for emerging and growing businesses.
- Assistance with selection of and access to incubation facilities.
Who should enter?
The competition is for South Africans over 16 with technologically innovative ideas – be it the seed of a thought, design saved on a memory stick, collection of parts or something produced and ready for retail shelves. Entries close on 30 September 2013.
Advice for entrants
Martin Feinstein, competition manager, advises entrants to not leave their entry forms to the last few days, as adjudicators can spot the difference between a rush job and a well thought through entry.
“Tell us in your own words what your technology innovation is, why you believe it’s different or better to what’s out there, and how it can be the basis for a solid business – that’s what it will take you to the top,” he says.
The judging phase
If you are selected as a finalist after the first round of scoring, which will be based on the content of your entry form, you will be invited to make an “in person” presentation to the judging panel for your industry sector. During this presentation you will be able to explain your idea or business in detail, with the emphasis on the commercial potential of your idea or innovation.
The competition covers technology innovations in six sectors:
- Health and biotechnology
- Chemical, mining and manufacturing
- Information and communication technologies
- Food and agriculture
- Energy
- The environment.
The winners will be announced in December.