Deadline: 5-May-22
Applications are now open for A Tech challenge project with an aim to support South African tech entrepreneurs seeking to scale globally, and form partnerships with the Irish Technology Ecosystem.
Impact Amplifier (“IA”) is administering the programme on behalf of the Embassy of Ireland in South Africa, the Department of Science & Innovation (DSI) and the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA).
Aims
- Primary reason – To provide Five high-potential entrepreneurs who are ready to expand their company and operations globally, with access to high-quality Irish expertise and networks.
- Secondary reason – The programme seeks to help foster stronger ties and cross collaboration between the tech and entrepreneurship ecosystems in Ireland and South Africa, in line with the long-term objective to provide a platform for both countries to thrive through mutual co-operation and support impactful technologies, which improve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Third reason – to enable women tech entrepreneurs with access to resources and support.
Benefits
- Up to 5 Entrepreneurs will:
- Access top tech-leaders’ expertise in Ireland
- Build their network in Ireland, Europe & South Africa
- Receive up to €10,000 funding each
- A funded 10-day curated business networking
- programme in Ireland
- The programme will:
- EXPAND high impact entrepreneurs scaling globally
- Leverage Ireland’s role as a global tech hub,
- Soften access to European and international markets
- Lean on the South African tech ecosystem as a partner and the South African government.
- Provide a new platform for tech entrepreneurs who address the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be majority owned by a South African, with headquarters in either Ireland or South Africa.
- Preference will be given to youth (i.e., 18-34 years old) and women owned businesses from marginalized communities.
- It can be headquartered in Ireland or South Africa, however it must be majority owned by a South African.
Selection Criteria
- Stage: Post revenue; Pre-revenue, (but with developed IP). Venture must demonstrate commercial potential.
- Sectors: All sectors welcome. They are particularly interested in: Clean/Green-Tech, Circular Economies, Med/Health/Biotech, Ed-Tech, WASH (Water, Sanitation, Hygiene)
- Impact: Addressing one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals: See SDG list
- Team: At least one founder/CEO must be full-time; Women-led or youth-led businesses are particularly encouraged to apply
- Ownership: At least 51% owned by a South African and/or partnership with an Irish national
- Geography: Headquartered in South Africa or Ireland
For more information, visit https://www.impactamplifier.co.za/irish-tech-challenge