Six technology-driven small, medium and micro enterprises were recognised at the SA Tech Challenge 2025 during the opening plenary of the 10th Science Forum South Africa (SFSA) in Pretoria, with a total of R3-million in grant funding awarded to support the commercialisation and scaling of locally developed innovations.

The national challenge, led by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), was hosted at the CSIR International Convention Centre and forms part of government’s drive to advance technologies that address South Africa’s socio-economic development priorities.

The awards were presented by Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Blade Nzimande, alongside Deputy Minister Dr Nomalungelo Gina, Companies and Intellectual Property Commission commissioner Adv Rory Voller and CSIR CEO Dr Thulani Dlamini.

The competition is delivered in partnership with a range of innovation ecosystem stakeholders, including the CSIR, Innovation Bridge, Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct, Technology Innovation Agency, Department of Communications and Digital Technologies and The Innovation Hub.

ROC Water Technologies secured first place and R1-million in grant funding for its technology that converts acid mine drainage into drinking-quality water using freeze crystallisation. Kasi Money placed second, receiving R750 000 for its fintech platform that provides digital banking services to informal sector workers.

Third place went to Ortho-Desig, which was awarded R500 000 for its locally engineered orthopaedic implants and fixation devices. Snode Technologies received R250 000 for its real-time cybersecurity threat detection and response solutions, while SweepSouth was awarded R250 000 for its digital marketplace that supports dignified domestic and home services work. The Marking App Africa also received R250 000 for its artificial intelligence-powered system that automates exam marking to reduce teacher workloads.

Following the awards ceremony, CSIR group executive Kaven Naidoo and DSTI acting deputy director-general Dr Kenny Tenza signed grant agreements with each of the winning enterprises, formalising government support for further development and market entry.