Irish Tech Challenge – South Africa

The Embassy of Ireland in South Africa, the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) & the Department of Science & Innovation (DSI) invite South African tech entrepreneurs to apply to the Irish Tech Challenge South Africa.

All across South Africa, there is enormous entrepreneurial potential and creativity, particularly in the tech space. That creativity is particularly vibrant among young entrepreneurs and women entrepreneurs. Meanwhile, Ireland has become a global tech hub and the location of choice for most of the world’s largest computer and software companies, and is now the second largest exporter of computer and IT services globally.

Therefore, through the Tech Challenge, we want to provide a platform for cooperation and sharing of expertise between the South African and Irish tech ecosystems for mutual benefit. The Tech Challenge is an important part of the Embassy of Ireland’s work in South Africa to support inclusive economic growth and to foster trade and economic relations between our two countries.

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 program in Ireland

The program 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).

Selection criteria

• Stage:
  Post revenue; Pre-revenue, (but with developed IP). The venture must demonstrate commercial potential.
• Sectors:
  All sectors welcome. We 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