Deadline: February 28, 2026
The Expression of Interest (EOI) for the Implementation of a Venture Builder Programme is an open call issued by the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) of South Africa. This initiative seeks qualified organisations or consortia to partner with TIA in the design, hosting, and implementation of a Deep Tech Venture Builder Programme aimed at strengthening South Africa’s innovation and commercialisation ecosystem.
The programme is designed to support deep technology startups and emerging ventures by providing structured venture-building support that accelerates technology validation, market readiness, scalability, and long-term sustainability.
About the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA)
The Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) is a national public entity established to support the development and commercialisation of technology innovations in South Africa. Through strategic partnerships and targeted funding programmes, TIA plays a critical role in bridging the gap between research, innovation, and market adoption.
Purpose of the Venture Builder Programme
The core objective of the Expression of Interest (EOI) for the Implementation of a Venture Builder Programme is to identify capable partners who can develop and deliver a comprehensive venture-building model that supports deep tech startups at various stages of growth.
The programme aims to:
- Strengthen South Africa’s deep tech innovation pipeline
- Support startups to achieve product-market fit
- Improve commercialisation and investment readiness
- Accelerate the scaling of high-potential technology ventures
- Address gaps in the national innovation and venture support ecosystem
Thematic Focus Areas
Applicants may propose venture-building support in one or more of the following priority sectors:
- Advanced Manufacturing and Industrial Modernisation
- Mining and Mineral Beneficiation
- Agricultural Innovation and Food Security
- Health Innovation and Wellbeing
- Energy Sustainability and Environmental Innovation
- Digital Economy
Proposals should clearly demonstrate sector relevance, technical depth, and commercialisation pathways.
Who Can Apply
Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African-registered legal entity or a consortium led by a South African entity
- Demonstrate a minimum of 5–10 years’ proven experience in building and supporting sustainable deep tech ventures
- Show the ability to design and deliver multi-stakeholder venture support programmes at national and, where relevant, international level
- Have access to or partnerships with technical, commercial, and venture-building experts
- Demonstrate the potential for co-funding or leveraging additional resources
What the EOI Submission Must Include
Interested organisations are required to submit a comprehensive EOI containing the following:
Organisational Profile
- Background and legal status
- Core competencies and operational capacity
Technical and Commercial Capabilities
- Experience in deep tech venture building
- Sector-specific expertise
- Commercialisation and scaling experience
Track Record
- Evidence of past venture building, incubation, acceleration, or commercialisation programmes
- Demonstrated outcomes and impact
Proposed Venture Builder Model
- Venture builder concept and approach
- Programme structure and delivery methodology
- Startup selection, support, and graduation process
Partnerships and Governance
- List of partners and consortium members
- Defined roles and responsibilities
- Partnership structure (e.g. MoUs, joint ventures)
Budget and Co-Funding
- Indicative programme budget
- Proposed co-funding or leveraged resources
Key Personnel
- Profiles of programme leads, mentors, advisors, and technical experts
Submission Details and Deadline
- Closing Date: 28 February 2026
- Submission Method: Electronic submission via email
- Submission Email: venturebuilder@tia.org.za
Late or incomplete submissions may not be considered.
Why This Opportunity Matters
The Expression of Interest (EOI) for the Implementation of a Venture Builder Programme represents a significant opportunity for experienced innovation support organisations to collaborate with a national agency on a high-impact, long-term venture development initiative. Successful partners will play a central role in shaping the next generation of South African deep tech ventures and accelerating their path to market and investment.
Need Support with Your Application?
If you require professional support with proposal drafting, refining, or review, expert assistance is available to help strengthen your submission, align it with TIA’s expectations, and improve your chances of success.
👉 Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review support.
