Applications open for Community-Based Living Labs Programme (South Africa)

The Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), on behalf of the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation, invites proposals for establishing and implementing Living Labs in Lejweleputswa District Municipality, Free State, and Garden Route District Municipality, Western Cape. This initiative aims to support innovative community-based projects. The deadline for applications is 30 October 2026, 17:00. Opportunity at a Glance

- Provider: Technology Innovation Agency (TIA)

- Opportunity Type: Grant for Living Labs establishment

- Funding Amount: Up to R 4,700,000 per Living Lab

- Eligible Applicants: Legally registered organizations with a presence in the applicable province

- Eligible Locations: Lejweleputswa District Municipality, Free State and Garden Route District Municipality, Western Cape

- Deadline: 30 October 2026, 17:00

- Project Duration: 24 months

About the Opportunity

This call for proposals seeks to foster innovation at the community level through the establishment of Living Labs. These labs are designed to create environments conducive to innovation, particularly within rural or township communities. The initiative encourages collaboration between local governments, communities, enterprises, and knowledge institutions to address local needs and stimulate economic development. Funding and Benefits

- Maximum Grant: R 4,700,000 per lab, contingent upon funding availability and project assessment.

- Contract Period: 24 months, aligned with an approved project plan and budget.

- Additional Requirements: Applicants should demonstrate how they will leverage additional funding and partnerships for sustainability.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible applicants must:

- Be legally registered and tax compliant. - Have a valid Central Supplier Database report and up-to-date CIPC annual returns. - Demonstrate a track record in the province, particularly in the targeted district. - Possess experience in rural or township communities and innovation support. - Maintain sound governance and operational systems. - Secure fit-for-purpose premises in the relevant district, with documented proof of occupancy rights.

Note: Organizations currently funded through the Living Labs Programme are ineligible.

Eligible Activities or Priority Areas - Establishment of Living Labs with necessary refurbishments and innovation equipment. - Innovation Activation Programme for at least 150 beneficiaries. - Innovation Bridging Programme for 50 beneficiaries with limited digital access. - Innovation Support Programme targeting 30 beneficiaries, focusing on youth, women, and persons with disabilities. - Development of local economic solutions using the Quadruple Helix methodology. - Inclusion interventions for women and persons with disabilities. - Creation of sustainability plans to access further funding and partnerships. Why This Opportunity Matters The Living Labs Programme by TIA is pivotal in driving community-led innovation, offering significant opportunities for local economic development and social empowerment. It prioritizes inclusivity, supporting women, youth, and people with disabilities, and aims to create sustainable innovation ecosystems. How to Apply - Download Application Documents: Obtain the Call for Proposals, Terms of Reference, Application Form, and Project-Plan Template from the Open Calls section of TIA’s website.

- Prepare the Application: Use the prescribed templates and include all required supporting documents, clearly stating the relevant district and province.

- Submit the Application: Email completed applications to [contact details removed] by 30 October 2026, 17:00. Late submissions or those not following the prescribed format will be rejected. Frequently Asked Questions Who can apply for this opportunity? Organizations that are legally registered, tax compliant, and have a presence in the specified provinces are eligible. What is the maximum funding amount available per lab? The maximum funding per Living Lab is R 4,700,000, subject to availability and project assessment. What are the key eligibility criteria? Applicants must demonstrate an established presence or partnership in the targeted district, have experience in community-based innovation, and secure appropriate premises. Can currently funded Living Labs apply? No, Living Labs already funded through this programme are not eligible to apply. How should the application be submitted? Applications must be submitted via email to [contact details removed] using the prescribed templates by the specified deadline. Next Steps Eligible organizations are encouraged to review the official guidelines and prepare their applications in adherence to the detailed requirements. For further details, visit the Technology Innovation Agency website and follow the stated application process.