The East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ), through its Science and Technology Park (STP), will host the 2025 Eastern Cape Innovation & Entrepreneurship Week (IEW) from 24–28 November 2025. Held in partnership with the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), academic institutions, financial institutions, and industry partners, the event aims to elevate the province’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Taking place at the ELIDZ Science & Technology Park in East London and delivered in hybrid format, IEW 2025 is guided by the theme Innovate. Commercialise. Thrive., underscoring its mission to grow tech-driven enterprises and strengthen research commercialisation in the Eastern Cape.
Event Overview
IEW 2025 offers a curated, high-impact programme designed to connect innovators, funders, policymakers, academics, and emerging entrepreneurs. The week features masterclasses, workshops, competitions, pitch sessions, exhibitions, and strategic networking opportunities.
The event will be officially opened by DEDEAT MEC, Ms Nonkqubela Pieters, supported by industry leaders and innovation ecosystem champions.
Why You Should Attend
Attendees gain exclusive access to:
- Expert-led masterclasses on commercialisation, design thinking, cybersecurity, and compliance
- A 48-hour Hackathon that challenges participants to produce real-world digital solutions
- An IP & Commercialisation Workshop equipping innovators with essential protection and market strategies
- A high-level Innovation Pitching Challenge with judges from government, industry, and investment sectors
- Exhibitions of homegrown technologies and prototypes
- Over R1.5 million worth of innovation support, incubation, and development opportunities
IEW 2025 is a rare opportunity to meet decision-makers, investors, researchers, and innovators who are shaping South Africa’s next generation of ventures.
Who Should Attend
IEW 2025 is ideal for:
- Innovators, inventors, and researchers
- Startups and aspiring entrepreneurs
- Youth in tech and digital innovation
- SMMEs seeking market access and mentorship
- Academics and students in STEM fields
- Venture funders, angel investors, and corporate innovation teams
- Government officials and economic development practitioners
- ICT professionals, developers, and designers
- Organisations working in advanced manufacturing, agriculture, renewable energy, mobility, and green technologies
A Strategic Platform for Innovation Leadership
IEW 2025 brings the province’s innovation capabilities to the forefront. Innovators, entrepreneurs, and youth from across the province will engage in workshops, mentorship sessions, technology showcases, and investment-focused activities. The event enhances collaboration among public and private-sector innovation stakeholders.
Showcasing Homegrown Technologies and Investable Prototypes
The week marks the culmination of the 2025 Eastern Cape Innovation Challenge and the 2025 EC Hackathon Challenge, which attracted high-potential innovators developing solutions in:
- Advanced manufacturing
- ICT and digital services
- Renewable energy and green technologies
- Agri-tech
- Automotive and mobility
- Research translation and commercialisation
Over R1.5 Million in Innovation Support to Be Awarded
Attendees and competitors will benefit from the unveiling of innovation support valued at over R1.5 million, consisting of:
- Prototype development support
- Incubation placements
- Technical mentorship
- Business development services
- Access to markets and buyer networks
Finalists from both the Hackathon and the Innovation Pitching Challenge will compete for these high-value opportunities, making IEW 2025 one of the province’s most impactful innovation events.
Programme Overview for 24–28 November 2025
Day 1 – Opening Ceremony & Masterclasses (24 Nov)
Led by DEDEAT MEC, featuring high-level masterclasses on innovation, commercialisation, compliance, and design thinking.
Days 2–3 – 48-Hour Hackathon (25–26 Nov)
An immersive, round-the-clock digital innovation challenge addressing real industrial and social needs.
Day 4 – IP & Commercialisation Workshop (27 Nov)
A practical session on intellectual property, technology protection, and market entry strategies.
Day 5 – Innovation Pitching & Awards Ceremony (28 Nov)
Finalists pitch their innovations; winners of the Hackathon and Innovation Challenge are announced.
Related opportunity: Secure Business Capital: JSE Roadshow for Limpopo
Registration and Contact Information
Register for the event:
Register online
For enquiries:
AphiweS@ELIDZ.co.za; LwandoM@ELIDZ.co.za
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