Irish Tech Challenge Selects 7 Promising South African Startups.

2024-08-08 16:15:15 | By Staff Writer


In a significant stride towards fostering global technological partnerships, the third edition of the Irish Tech Challenge South Africa has unveiled seven promising South African tech startups.


This annual initiative, orchestrated by the Embassy of Ireland in South Africa in collaboration with Wits University’s Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct, the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), and Dogpatch Labs in Ireland, aims to create synergistic relationships between South African entrepreneurs and Ireland’s renowned technological expertise.

The Selection Process

This year, the challenge received over 350 submissions, focusing on identifying South African-owned, growth-stage tech startups contributing to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The selected startups will engage in a rigorous pre-acceleration program, featuring workshops, masterclasses, and mentorship sessions in South Africa.

The Benefits

The seven chosen entrepreneurs will each receive up to EUR 10,000 (approximately US$11,000) in funding, a sponsored trip to Ireland for a bespoke business networking program with some of Ireland’s leading business figures, integration into the Irish tech ecosystem with potential for additional funding, and acceleration support from Dogpatch Labs.

Meet the Startups

  1. SmartView Technology: Specializes in enterprise-level utility management solutions.
  2. Momint: Utilizes blockchain technology to facilitate secure investments in renewable energy projects.
  3. The Awareness Company: Enhances operational efficiency and sustainability through its data-driven situational awareness software, Hydra.
  4. Athena: Provides a platform enabling affordable healthcare services by allowing patients to finance their medical treatments in installments.
  5. Adbot: Offers tailored online advertising solutions for small businesses.
  6. Samanjalo: Focuses on fly ash beneficiation.
  7. Credipple: A talent marketplace connecting trusted creative and digital professionals.

A Message from the Ambassador

Ambassador of Ireland to South Africa, Austin Gormley, commented on the initiative, stating,

“This initiative exemplifies the strength of Irish-South African collaboration in technology and innovation. It underscores Ireland’s commitment to fostering global technological partnerships and supporting young entrepreneurs in realizing their potential on the world stage. We look forward to their journeys and the impact they will have in promoting inclusive economic growth in South Africa.”

Building a Future Together

The Irish Tech Challenge South Africa not only highlights the robust collaboration between Ireland and South Africa but also showcases the potential of African tech startups on the global stage.


The selected startups are set to gain invaluable insights and connections, propelling them towards greater heights and furthering the cause of sustainable development across the continent.