In a significant boost to Nelson Mandela Bay’s innovation landscape, the Propella Business Incubator has been appointed by the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) as an implementing partner for the Global Cleantech Innovation Programme in South Africa (GCIP-SA). This collaboration underscores Propella’s commitment to fostering sustainable technological advancements within the region.
Propella’s Role in Advancing Cleantech Innovation
Established in 2015, Propella has been instrumental in supporting innovators with disruptive technologies, focusing on areas such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, advanced manufacturing, and supply chain optimization. Over the past decade, the incubator has successfully nurtured numerous ventures, providing entrepreneurs with essential resources, including business mentorship, prototyping facilities, technical expertise, and market entry strategies. This comprehensive support has significantly contributed to green economic growth in Nelson Mandela Bay and beyond.
The GCIP-SA Partnership: Empowering Entrepreneurs
The Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (GCIP) is a global initiative aimed at promoting cleantech innovations to support entrepreneurs in growing their Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and startups into viable, investment-ready businesses. In South Africa, GCIP was incorporated into TIA in early 2018 after operating as a donor-funded project by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF). As an implementing partner, Propella collaborates with TIA to deliver pre-accelerator, accelerator, and post-accelerator support, contributing to the growth of the national innovation ecosystem.
Focus Areas and Application Process
The GCIP focuses on several key areas:
- Energy Efficiency
- Renewable Energy
- Waste Beneficiation
- Water Efficiency
- Green Buildings
- Advanced Materials & Chemicals
The programme is designed to guide participants from the initial stages of startup development through growth and scaling, with a structured pathway consisting of four phases: Pre-Acceleration, Incubation, Acceleration, and Post-Acceleration. The application period opens on Monday, 3 March 2025, and the programme is open to startups, small businesses, and individuals committed to developing impactful and sustainable innovations. To apply or learn more about Propella, GCIP, and Design Thinking workshops, visit www.propellaincubator.co.za or email Grant Minnie at grant@propellaincubator.co.za.
A Decade of Innovation: Propella’s Impact
Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025, Propella has been a key player in the technology innovation space, having successfully incubated numerous projects across the ICT, Industrial, and Creative sectors. The incubator has equipped entrepreneurs and startups with hands-on support, including business mentorship, prototyping facilities, access to technical expertise, and market entry strategies. Through tailored business development programmes and access to funding opportunities, Propella has enabled innovators to bring groundbreaking solutions to market—fostering sustainability and driving green economic growth in Nelson Mandela Bay and beyond.
Conclusion
Propella’s appointment as an implementing partner for GCIP-SA marks a significant milestone in Nelson Mandela Bay’s journey towards sustainable innovation. By empowering entrepreneurs and fostering the development of cleantech solutions, Propella continues to play a pivotal role in shaping a greener and more prosperous future for the region.
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