CFPs: Rural Community Networks for Inclusive Digital Transformation (South Africa)

The program focuses on community network deployment, low-cost resilient connectivity models, Wi-Fi mesh technologies, TV White Space solutions, solar-powered infrastructure, community and SMME ownership models, digital inclusion platforms, affordable ICT connectivity, local language integration, offline functionality, capacity building, digital literacy, entrepreneurship training, gender-inclusive participation, licensing facilitation, education and STEEM support, teaching and learning technologies, AR/VR tools, sustainability and revenue models, innovative funding mechanisms, micro-payment systems, pricing and costing models, partnerships with local SMMEs and cooperatives, and inclusive socio-economic development.

This call forms part of the Viability and Validation of Innovation for Service Delivery Programme, an initiative of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation aimed at supporting the piloting, demonstration, and deployment of technologies that improve the delivery of basic services in the City of uMhlathuze. The programme is implemented by the Technology Innovation Agency and is designed to encourage innovative approaches to service delivery while promoting inclusion and local empowerment.

The selected service provider for the Amangwe Community Centred Wireless Network will support the city’s Youth Economic Empowerment Programme and the STEEM initiative in partnership with the Technology Innovation Agency and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation. The initiative seeks to bridge the digital divide by rolling out community-centred connectivity solutions targeting Amangwe High School, ten surrounding schools, and communities located within a ten-kilometre radius of the school in Empangeni.

The initiative aligns with South Africa’s digital inclusion agenda, the District Development Model initiatives, and the national Decadal Plan. It also contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals related to quality education, decent work and economic growth, industry and innovation, and sustainable communities.

Applicants are invited to submit commercially ready or advanced pilot-stage solutions suitable for rural environments. Eligible applicants include South African SMMEs, startups, non-profit organisations, and community-based organisations. Preference will be given to technologies developed for African conditions and proposals demonstrating partnerships, similar implementation experience, or co-funding arrangements. Applicants must also have the ability to operate in KwaZulu-Natal or maintain a presence within the province.

The program offers a pure grant of up to R1 million under the Technology Innovation Agency’s Innovation Intermediaries Programme to support the implementation and sustainability of selected projects.

For more information, visit TIA.