The East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ), through its Science and Technology Park (STP), is inviting innovators, entrepreneurs and emerging enterprises to participate in its Prototype Development Programme, an initiative designed to transform innovative ideas into market-ready products and support the growth of technology-driven businesses in the Eastern Cape.
The programme is being rolled out through a newly launched Expression of Interest (EOI) and seeks to identify promising innovations with the potential to contribute to industrial development, technological advancement and economic growth across the province.
As innovation becomes increasingly central to competitiveness and economic resilience, access to prototype development support remains a critical step in helping entrepreneurs validate their concepts, test solutions and prepare products for commercialisation. Through the Science and Technology Park (STP), the ELIDZ continues to provide a platform that bridges the gap between ideas and market opportunities while strengthening the province’s innovation ecosystem.
The programme targets innovators and SMMEs operating within strategic sectors including automotive, advanced manufacturing, digital economy, sustainable energy, agri-industry, aquaculture and logistics, all of which have been identified as priority growth sectors for regional industrial development.
ELIDZ Chief Executive Officer, Thembela Zweni, said the initiative forms part of the organisation’s broader commitment to supporting innovation-led industrialisation and expanding opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
“Innovation is a key driver of economic growth and future industrial competitiveness. Through the Science and Technology Park (STP), the ELIDZ is creating pathways for innovators and entrepreneurs to move beyond concepts and develop solutions that can respond to industry challenges and market demands. By supporting prototype development, we are investing in the next generation of products, technologies and businesses that have the potential to contribute to economic growth, job creation and industrial diversification in the Eastern Cape.”
The ELIDZ Science and Technology Park (STP) was established to enhance the competitiveness of the zone and the broader provincial economy through innovation, research and technology development. In addition to supporting entrepreneurs and innovators, the STP contributes to the advancement of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) capabilities while helping to create an enabling environment for innovation-driven enterprises.
The prototype development programme also supports inclusive economic participation, with particular emphasis on black-owned, women-owned and youth-owned enterprises. By providing access to technical support and innovation development services, the programme seeks to unlock opportunities for emerging businesses that may otherwise face barriers to product development and market entry.
Entrepreneurs, innovators and qualifying SMMEs are encouraged to submit applications and take advantage of the opportunity to refine and develop innovative products that could contribute to the Eastern Cape’s growing innovation and industrial landscape.
Applications for the Prototype Development Programme close on 18 September 2026 at 12h00. Interested applicants can access the Expression of Interest documents and submission requirements via the ELIDZ website and Tender Portal.
About the ELIDZ Science and Technology Park (STP)
The ELIDZ Science and Technology Park (STP) is a strategic innovation platform established to support research, technology development, entrepreneurship and industrial innovation. The STP provides a range of support services, including prototype development, research support and business development services, aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of SMMEs and fostering innovation-led economic growth in the Eastern Cape.
Issued by ELIDZ
For media enquiries:
Mr Siphosethu Tikana
Acting Manager: Marketing & Corporate Communications
Email: siphosethuti@elidz.co.za
Tel: 064 900 8392 / 076 800 5317