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Call for Applications: Proof of Concept Scheme (Mauritius)

Deadline: 05-Mar-2026

The Prototype and Concept Scheme (PCS) provides funding of up to MUR 2 million for projects lasting up to 24 months, supporting innovators to develop prototypes, validate business ideas, and advance research outputs with strong commercial potential. The scheme targets MSMEs, start-ups, large companies, NGOs, cooperatives, and research institutions aiming to transform ideas into market-ready solutions.

Overview

The Prototype and Concept Scheme (PCS) supports innovators in developing and validating prototypes, assessing market potential, and advancing research outputs toward commercialisation. The program focuses on technologies with promising commercial potential, offering resources to establish proof of concept, obtain professional advice on Intellectual Property (IP) protection, and evaluate integration into a marketable product or process. PCS aims to bridge the gap between research and market-ready solutions by providing structured financial and technical support.

Funding and Grant Details

PCS offers funding of up to MUR 2 million per project for a maximum period of 24 months. The grant is intended to enable innovators to:

  • Develop and test prototypes that demonstrate feasibility.

  • Validate business ideas and assess commercial viability.

  • Obtain professional opinions on Intellectual Property (IP) protection.

  • Evaluate integration potential into market-ready products or processes.
    Funding is designed to transform research outputs and innovative ideas into commercially relevant solutions.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

  • Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

  • Start-up companies and large companies.

  • State-owned companies.

  • Associations, including NGOs and NPOs registered with the Registrar of Associations.

  • Cooperatives registered with the Registrar of Cooperative Societies.

  • Research or higher education institutions, in collaboration with companies.
    Projects involving collaboration between research institutions and commercial entities are encouraged to maximize the innovation and market impact.

How the Scheme Works / How to Apply

  1. Check Eligibility: Ensure your organisation qualifies and meets PCS requirements.

  2. Identify Innovation: Define the technology, prototype, or research output you aim to develop and commercialize.

  3. Develop Proposal: Include objectives, prototype development plan, IP considerations, commercialization strategy, and expected outcomes.

  4. Submit Application: Follow PCS submission guidelines and deadlines for review.

  5. Assessment: Applications are evaluated on innovation, commercial potential, feasibility, and IP protection strategy.

  6. Grant Award: Successful applicants receive funding up to MUR 2 million for a maximum of 24 months to develop and validate prototypes and business ideas.

Tips for a Strong Application:

  • Demonstrate clear commercial potential of the innovation.

  • Include a detailed prototype development plan.

  • Address IP protection strategies and legal considerations.

  • Highlight collaborations with research or industry partners.

  • Show how the project can scale into a marketable solution.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting applications without clear proof-of-concept plans.

  • Neglecting IP protection and commercialization strategy.

  • Failing to define measurable outcomes or market impact.

  • Exceeding the 24-month project duration or MUR 2 million funding limit.

  • Omitting collaboration details with research institutions or commercial partners.

Why This Scheme Matters

PCS enables innovators to bridge the gap between research and market-ready solutions, transforming novel ideas into commercially viable prototypes. By providing funding, technical guidance, and support for IP protection, the scheme strengthens innovation ecosystems, promotes entrepreneurship, and supports economic growth through the development of scalable technologies.

FAQ – Prototype and Concept Scheme (PCS)

1. What is the maximum funding available? Up to MUR 2 million per project.
2. What is the maximum project duration? 24 months.
3. Who can apply? MSMEs, start-ups, large companies, state-owned companies, NGOs, NPOs, cooperatives, and research institutions in collaboration with companies.
4. Are collaborative projects encouraged? Yes, partnerships between research institutions and commercial entities are highly encouraged.
5. What types of activities are eligible? Prototype development, proof-of-concept validation, IP protection assessment, and commercialization planning.
6. How are applications assessed? Based on innovation, feasibility, commercial potential, and IP strategy.
7. Can research institutions apply independently? Yes, but collaboration with a commercial entity is recommended for market integration.

Conclusion

The Prototype and Concept Scheme (PCS) provides strategic funding and support for innovators in Mauritius to transform research outputs and ideas into market-ready prototypes and commercially viable solutions. By emphasizing proof-of-concept, IP protection, and commercialization potential, PCS strengthens the innovation ecosystem, fosters entrepreneurship, and drives sustainable economic growth.

For more information, visit MRIC.