The Bioindustries Funding Call 2026 is a strategic initiative designed to support startups and small businesses within South Africa’s expanding bioeconomy. Implemented by The Innovation Hub Management Company (TIHMC) in collaboration with the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), the program aims to strengthen industrial bio-innovation. It targets ventures developing bio-based technologies that contribute to sustainability, job creation, and industrial growth, providing a pathway for early-stage businesses to move from conceptual stages to commercial impact.
Program Focus and Objectives
- Prioritizes practical bio-based innovations with high commercial and environmental potential.
- Focuses on projects demonstrating clear development outcomes rather than research alone.
- Supports the refinement of technologies, prototype construction, and pilot project implementation.
- Facilitates early-stage business expansion and market entry preparation.
Funding and Financial Structure
- Grant allocations range between R51,000 and R300,000 per year.
- Applicants must provide a comprehensive three-year funding and development plan.
- Funding is intended for product development, prototype testing, and demonstration projects.
- Financial support is structured to achieve measurable progress over a multi-year period.
Comprehensive Business Support
- Integration with TIHMC’s Start-Up Support Programme (SSP).
- Access to specialized incubation and innovation facilities.
- Connection to technical and commercial mentors.
- Business development assistance and networking opportunities within the national bioeconomy ecosystem.
Eligibility Requirements
- Open to registered businesses operating or intending to operate in bio-based industries.
- Applicants must be currently incubated at TIHMC or willing to join its incubation program.
- Ventures must possess a proof-of-concept or a clear plan for development using the grant.
- Businesses must demonstrate potential for job creation and significant economic impact.
Priority Bioeconomy Focus Areas
- Bioconversion and bio-manufacturing.
- Industrial biocatalysis technologies.
- Bioremediation and environmental solutions.
- Microbial exploration and bioprospecting.
- Biorefinery development.
Application Components
- Business Overview: Detailed value proposition and problem-solving approach.
- Innovation and Novelty: Explanation of what distinguishes the technology from existing solutions.
- Market and Beneficiaries: Analysis of target customers, market size, and route-to-market strategy.
- Budget and Financial Plan: Itemized three-year budget including cost breakdowns and co-funding sources.
- Team Capacity: Evidence of the team’s skills and experience to deliver and commercialize the innovation.
Timeline and Selection Process
- Application Deadline: 23 January 2026.
- Evaluation Period: The adjudication process may take up to three months.
- Shortlisting: Successful candidates will be contacted for further discussions and onboarding.
- Submission Method: All applications must be submitted electronically with required supporting documentation.
Guidelines for Competitive Proposals
- Explicitly link the project to economic, environmental, or industrial impacts.
- Utilize data to substantiate claims regarding market demand or uptake.
- Demonstrate technical readiness through prototypes, pilot results, or early validation.
- Ensure budgets are realistic and include materials, testing, personnel, and pilot costs.
The Bioindustries Funding Call 2026 represents a significant opportunity for entrepreneurs at the intersection of biotechnology and industrial innovation. By combining financial grants with structured incubation and mentorship, the program assists bio-based startups in refining their technologies and positioning themselves for long-term growth. This initiative serves as a critical step for ventures aiming to contribute to South Africa’s sustainable industrial future and achieve commercial success.