Financial support across innovation stages — post proof of concept to pre-commercialisation (TRL4–TRL8).
Recipients gain access to incubation and acceleration services to navigate the entrepreneurial journey.
We collaborate with industry, research institutions, and government to create a thriving innovation ecosystem.
The Botswana Innovation Fund (BIF) supports the development and commercialisation of innovative technologies, products, and services that drive Botswana's transition to a knowledge-based economy. Through strategic funding, partnerships, and innovation ecosystem support, BIF empowers entrepreneurs, researchers, and companies to transform breakthrough ideas into scalable businesses.
BIF is a dedicated financial instrument supporting the development and commercialisation of innovative products and services across Botswana's priority sectors.
Vision: To be a leading catalyst for innovation and economic prosperity in Botswana.
Mission: To empower innovators and entrepreneurs by providing financial support, mentorship, and resources to develop and commercialise innovative solutions that address national challenges.
Ethical conduct and accountability in all we do.
Timely support that meets the evolving needs of innovators.
Inclusive access to funding and innovation support for all eligible entities.
Championing a culture of creativity, experimentation, and advancement.
Working with partners across industry, academia, and government to build a thriving ecosystem.
The Botswana Innovation Fund continues to grow its portfolio of innovative enterprises — driving economic diversification and creating high-value employment across agriculture, healthcare, energy, and technology.
A seismic monitoring solution for mining pit walls that detects geo-technical hazards in real time, protecting lives and assets across Botswana's extractive sector.
Phenyo Chelane · TRL 6An intelligent precision irrigation platform that addresses Botswana's water scarcity challenges through automated water management and real-time monitoring.
Joseph Lejowa · TRL 5Developing advanced carbon-based materials with applications in industrial and sustainable technology sectors, driving local IP development in Botswana.
Advanced Materials · TRL 5
Supporting innovations in food production, precision farming, smart irrigation, and agricultural value chain development.
Read MoreFunding innovative medical technologies, diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, and health services that improve quality of life for Batswana.
Read MoreSupporting renewable energy solutions, energy efficiency technologies, and environmental innovations for Botswana's sustainability.
Read MoreBacking software development, digital platforms, and ICT solutions — including fintech, AI, blockchain, and IoT applications.
Read MoreFunding technical innovations for mining, minerals processing, and manufacturing sectors including geo-tech monitoring and automation.
Read MoreSupporting prototyping, IP registration, and commercialisation of R&D outcomes from TRL4 through to TRL8.
Read More"BIF's support has been instrumental in bringing our Geo Tech Alert Pro Monitoring solution to life — a system for monitoring seismic activities on mining pit walls, with broad creative applications across Botswana's critical mining sector."
"The BIF grant allowed us to develop our Smart Irrigation System — addressing Botswana's water scarcity challenges through precision irrigation and intelligent water management. We're proud to be building solutions that matter for our country."
BIF supports innovation development from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 to TRL 8 — supporting Botswana-registered companies developing new or significantly improved products, processes, and technical services.
Small to large-scale prototypes integrated and validated in lab and relevant environments.
Technology demonstrated in relevant environments with proven reliability across operating conditions.
Full-scale pre-commercial system demonstrated and qualified — ready for market entry.
Financial support for product development, prototyping, validation, piloting, and pre-commercialisation.
Support for market readiness, capability building, standards compliance, and stronger routes to adoption.
Connections to industry, research institutions, and strategic partners that strengthen innovation outcomes.
BIF supports innovations that respond to national and global challenges through commercially relevant local solutions.
Funding Guidelines
BIF and Scalar International officially launched the Scalar Botswana Innovation Programme, opening applications to climate-tech startups across SADC.
BIF-funded Pyro Carbon has launched its advanced carbon technology, a milestone in Botswana's push to develop high-value industrial innovations with global export potential.
Several BIF portfolio companies received recognition at national innovation awards, reflecting the growing strength of Botswana's innovation ecosystem.
Nimbus's precision irrigation system, developed with BIF support, is being piloted across agricultural communities in eastern Botswana.
Office Telephone:
+267 391 3328
Botswana Digital & Innovation Hub
Science & Technology Park, Gaborone
General: contactus@bif.co.bw
Applications: complaints@bif.co.bw
