South Africa, like many countries around the world, is actively addressing the challenges of climate change and environmental sustainability. The impacts of climate change, including droughts, floods, and environmental degradation, have underscored the urgent need for innovative solutions. In this context, the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), an entity of the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), has been at the forefront of supporting and recognising innovators in the cleantech industry.
On 27 March 2024, TIA, as an implementing partner of the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme South Africa (GCIP-SA) announced the winners of the 2023/24 GCIP-SA competition.
GCIP-SA, implemented in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) with the support of the Global Environment Facility (GEF), has provided vital support to start-ups through business acceleration training, mentorship, networking, and funding access, driving innovative solutions to address climate change challenges. This year’s cohort of finalists has developed exciting innovations in areas such as the circular economy, water efficiency, energy, waste beneficiation transportation, advanced material, chemicals, and green buildings. These innovations are crucial for South Africa's transition to a greener economy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
In her opening address, Ms Matsi Modise, TIA Board Chairperson said, "Today, we're celebrating our country's inspiring innovators. They see challenges as chances to find creative solutions. At TIA, we're proud to be part of their journey toward global change. Our innovators come from different backgrounds, many from humble beginnings. This shows that innovation can come from anywhere, and the solutions they present tonight help solve our everyday problems."
The overall winner of the GCIP-SA 2023/24 is Charnte Marthinus for her SmartView Utility Management solution, an essential tool for industrial and commercial utilities that provides accurate real-time data on water usage. Smartview Technology's solutions aim to significantly reduce carbon emissions and utility waste and drive economic benefits by reducing operational costs for businesses. The innovation leads to enhanced environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic savings, aligning with global sustainability goals.
As the overall winner, Charnte was awarded a cash prize and she will be joining winners from partner countries at the GCIP Cleantech Days Forum in Vienna, in June, where the global winner will be selected.
Other winners on the night were:
- Runner up 1: Eric Khoza of Tyrec
- Runner up 2: Santoosh Maharaj of Green Coffee
- Runner up 3: Lesley Mukwada of The Chemistry Solutions Company
In addition to the winners, special awards were presented to finalists who excelled in various areas.
- Innovation for Social Impact: Pheladi Chiloane, Sola4Africa
- Best Woman-led Team: Tumi Frazier, 4th Wave Tech (PTY)Ltd
- Most Promising Youth led Team: Charnte Marthinus, Smartview Technology
- Most Improved Semi-finalist: Nonhlanhla Nkosi, PowerHike Solar Technologies
"The entrepreneurs gathered here today are truly exceptional. In South Africa alone, since the start of the programme we have received over 800 applications, yet this group before us has successfully risen above the competition. The mentors have played a crucial role in guiding these innovators toward perfecting their innovations, and we can only wish that tonight’s innovators come back as mentors for the next group of finalists in the next round," said Mr Vusi Skosana, Executive: Innovation Enabling, TIA.
