About Us
The Mobile Applications Laboratory NPC (mLab) was successfully awarded a Regional Innovation Support Programme (RISP) grant by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research’s (CSIR) Technology Localisation Implementation Unit to establish an AgriTech and TravelTech regional innovation network in the Limpopo Province.
The project aims to build a network of researchers, designers, innovators and entrepreneurs to establish a vibrant agriculture and tourism technology ecosystem in Limpopo. Polokwane is the ideal city from which to start building the network and will serve as the hub from which to expand the network to more remote parts of the Limpopo Province.
The RISP Project will focus on:
- Establishing and building a network of collaborative stakeholders
- Stimulating a vibrant ecosystem that supports innovation
- Promoting community engagement through innovation activities and challenges, and
- Incubating and supporting qualifying start-ups to facilitate the commercialisation of AgriTech and TravelTech in the region
Our Aim
The aim of the mLab RISP Project is to fuel collaboration amongst stakeholders, and the growth of AgriTech and TravelTech ecosystems in the Limpopo Province by capitalising on the region’s entrepreneurial successes, existing networks, and public-private partnerships.
Our Vision
To position AgriTech and TravelTech entrepreneurs as active innovation and change agents in the Limpopo economy, demonstrating the ability of empowered youth to drive technological and social change.
Timeline
Build Ecosystem
Hosting 4 AgriTech AND Travel Innovation Showcase Awareness Event
Stakeholders present Innovation challenges and Opportunities to set the context related to AgriTech and TravelTech status in Limpopo Province
Stimulate Innovation
Intensive Bootcamp Workshops
The Workshops will be hosted in 4 different regions (Mokopane/Polokwane/Venda/Phalaborwa) in Limpopo targeting local universities and TVET colleges.
Support Startups
Seed Funding and Support
Funding support to the value of R100k for qualifying SMMEs
- Support 4 SMME’s
- Opportunity to attend SA Innovation Summit.
- Mentorship.
Core Partners
Finalists
2021
2022