Propella Business Incubator joins forces with TIA to drive Cleantech Innovation in South Africa.
Earlier in March 2025, Propella Business Incubator proudly announced its selection as one of just nine implementing partners of the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) across South Africa. Significantly, Propella stands as one of only two partners in the Eastern Cape, reinforcing its leadership in driving technological innovation and sustainability in the region.
This groundbreaking partnership enables Propella to collaborate with TIA in providing comprehensive pre-accelerator, accelerator, and post-accelerator support. It represents a crucial milestone in strengthening South Africa’s national innovation ecosystem, reflecting Propella’s dedication to fostering green technology, empowering entrepreneurs, and tackling critical environmental challenges.
Speaking on the collaboration, Grant Minnie, Propella’s Senior Industrial Advisor and Industrial Engineer, emphasized its importance in addressing urgent environmental concerns, “This partnership comes at a crucial time as global and Eastern Cape communities face increasing environmental challenges. The TIA and GCIP-SA partnership supports the urgent need for cleantech innovation to deliver sustainable solutions in energy efficiency, waste beneficiation, clean water, green buildings, and renewable energy.”
As environmental issues such as climate change and resource scarcity continue to challenge both local and global communities, Propella’s collaboration with TIA stands out as a beacon of hope. The initiative is designed to not only support startups but also empower them to excel in the emerging green economy.
Central to this partnership is the Global Cleantech Innovation Program – South Africa (GCIP-SA), an initiative dedicated to helping cleantech entrepreneurs scale their ventures into investment-ready businesses. Initially donor-funded by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), GCIP-SA was integrated into TIA’s operations in 2018, creating a robust framework for fostering cleantech innovation.
Vusi Skosana, TIA’s Acting Executive for Innovation, highlighted the agency’s pivotal role in this transformation, “TIA is committed to acting as a system curator, uniting key players in the cleantech ecosystem. By facilitating collaboration and offering strategic guidance, we are empowering innovation hubs to maximize their impact and advance South Africa’s cleantech agenda.”
Since its establishment in 2015, Propella has built an impressive track record, incubating over 300 ICT, industrial, and creative sector projects. By providing resources such as business mentorship, prototyping facilities, and market entry strategies, Propella has empowered startups to bring transformative solutions to market while driving green economic growth.
Fred Waltii II, President and CEO of the Network for Global Innovation (NGIN), praised Propella’s approach, “Propella exemplifies the kind of innovation hub that makes TIA’s work so extraordinary. Beyond business plans, Propella excels in helping entrepreneurs transition from concept to prototype quickly and affordably.”
Propella’s holistic commitment to sustainability and the circular economy sets it apart. The incubator actively promotes solutions that minimize waste, maximize resource efficiency, and create sustainable business practices. As Grant Minnie explains:
“As an Innovation Hub, Propella is not just driving green technology solutions - it is establishing itself as a socially responsible leader. By cultivating an ecosystem where technology and sustainability work hand in hand, we are laying the groundwork for meaningful, long-term change.”
Entrepreneurs seeking to engage with Propella through the GCIP-SA program can look forward to a structured pathway encompassing four key stages:
1. Pre-Acceleration – Early-stage support to refine business models and establish market fit.
2. Incubation – Hands-on guidance, access to resources, and technical expertise.
3. Acceleration – Fast-tracking growth through market exposure, funding access, and mentorship.
4. Post-Acceleration – Ongoing support to sustain and scale business operations
The program focuses on vital areas, including:
- Energy Efficiency.
- Renewable Energy.
- Waste Beneficiation.
- Water Efficiency.
- Green Buildings.
Propella’s partnership with TIA is set to redefine the cleantech landscape in South Africa. With nearly a decade of experience, a strong portfolio of successful startups, and an unwavering focus on sustainability, Propella is well-positioned to drive transformative change across the Eastern Cape and beyond. As the world faces escalating environmental and economic challenges, this collaboration stands as a testament to the power of innovation and collective action in shaping a brighter, greener future for all.
For more, visit: Propella Business Incubator