The East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ) has issued an Expression of Interest (EOI 2026-EOI-HEMP-STP-01) to appoint innovative enterprises for the beneficiation of hemp and cannabis through biotechnology. This strategic initiative aims to transform the Eastern Cape into a premier hub for bio-based industrial development, addressing barriers like limited funding and technical expertise.
Scope of Focus
The programme seeks to convert hemp and cannabis biomass into a range of bio-based products including:
- Biofuels: Bioethanol, Biodiesel, Biohydrogen, Biogas and Syngas
- Biomaterials: Bio-composites, Bioplastics and Textiles from hemp fibres and hurds
- Bio-foams, Bio-lubricants, Bioconstruction and Bio-packaging materials
- Biochar
Eligibility Criteria
Mandatory Requirements:
- Registered business entity
- Qualify as an SMME in accordance with the National Small Enterprise Act
- Fully operational and based in the Eastern Cape Province (verifiable proof required)
- Product achieved Technology Readiness Level 4 or higher
- Potential to generate competitive new Intellectual Property
- Product with potential to scale to pilot and industrial levels
Exclusions:
- Entities located outside the Eastern Cape
- Previously funded by ELIDZ
- Previously funded for the same activities elsewhere (no double-dipping)
- Submissions without a completed ELIDZ Procurement Handbook
Briefing and Enquiries
While not mandatory, a virtual briefing session is highly recommended to clarify technical requirements and evaluation criteria.
- Date: Tuesday, 25 August 2026
- Time: 14:00
- Platform: Microsoft Teams (Meeting ID: 344 089 489 539 886, Passcode: 7Dd27aH3)
Related opportunity: Join the NAMC Tomato Paste Value Chain Webinar
Submission Guidelines
Only online submissions will be considered. Proposals must clearly outline commercialisation potential, scalability, and job creation impact within the province.
- Closing Date: Friday, 18 September 2026
- Closing Time: 12:00
- Contact: Anathi Mzantsi (anathi@elidz.co.za | 043-702-8258)
Document Access
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