Call to Apply For Bioindustries Funding Call 2026

The Bioindustries Funding Call 2026 offers competitive support for startups and small businesses in the bioeconomy, especially ventures focused on bio-based technologies, bioconversion, bioremediation, industrial biocatalysis, microbial exploration, and biorefineries. This call, run by The Innovation Hub Management Company (TIHMC) in South Africa in partnership with the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), is part of a broader programme to stimulate innovation and job creation in industrial bio-innovation sectors.

What the Funding Offers (Benefits)

 Funding Range

Projects can receive R51,000 up to R300,000 per year to support activities such as product development, prototype testing, demonstration projects, and early business expansion. Applicants must include a 3-year funding plan in their proposal.

 Innovation & Commercialisation Support

Beyond financial backing, this call is aligned with TIHMC’s broader Start-Up Support Programme (SSP), which helps innovative, knowledge-driven enterprises connect to incubation resources, mentors, and technical networks across the bioeconomy.

Who Can Apply (Eligibility)

This funding round targets entities that:

• Are registered businesses interested in bio-based innovation.
• Are either already incubated at TIHMC or express interest in joining its incubation programme.
• Have a clear proof-of-concept or are poised to use the grant for demonstrable development in the bioindustries.

The focus is on ventures that combine innovation with economic impact potential, particularly job creation and measurable contribution to South Africa’s bioeconomic sectors.

Priority Bioeconomy Focus Areas

Proposals should align with one or more of the bioindustry themes below:

• Bioconversion and Bio-Manufacturing
• Industrial Biocatalysis Technologies
• Bioremediation Solutions
• Microbial Bioprospecting
• Biorefinery Development

These areas reflect sector priorities for sustainable industrial processes, waste transformation, biological production systems, and environmental impact technologies.

Application Requirements & What to Include

To be competitive, your proposal should clearly explain:1. Business Description

• Value proposition
• Problem addressed and why your solution matters

2. Innovation or Novelty

• What makes your project unique compared to existing solutions

3. Market and Beneficiaries

• Target users/customers
• Market analysis, size, barriers, and strategy

4. Budget & Financial Plan

• Detailed budget for Year 1 to Year 3
• Breakdown of costs and any co-funding sources

5. Team & Capability

• Why your team is positioned to deliver and commercialise the innovation

Applications should be submitted electronically with all supporting documents attached.

Deadline & Timeline

 Application Deadline:23 January 2026 — proposals must be received by this date to be considered.

The adjudication process may take up to 3 months, after which selected projects are contacted for next steps, possible incubation pathways, and grantee onboarding.

Tips for a Proposal

• Be specific about impact: Link your project to clear environmental, economic, or industrial outcomes.
• Use data where possible: Provide evidence of market demand or potential uptake.
• Show readiness: Demonstrate that you have early validation, prototype insights, or a clear plan to utilise the funds effectively.
• Prepare thorough budgets: Include items such as materials, testing support, personnel, and pilot costs.