Frequently Asked Questions
BIF exists to support the development and commercialisation of innovative products, processes, and technical services in Botswana. The Fund helps bridge the gap between concept validation and market readiness by supporting innovations in the development and pre-commercialisation stages.
The BIF Committee provides oversight on implementation of the Fund. Botswana Digital & Innovation Hub serves as the Secretariat and supports fund administration. The Committee includes independent members from the private sector and business community, appointed by the responsible Minister.
Funding is intended for Botswana-domiciled private sector companies developing innovative solutions with technical and commercial potential. The business must have the capacity to implement the project and comply with tax, governance, and reporting requirements.
BIF supports projects focused on developing new or significantly improved products, processes, and technical services, particularly from prototype development through pre-commercialisation. Projects must demonstrate technical merit, commercial potential, and socio-economic relevance.
BIF primarily supports projects in the development range from TRL 4 to TRL 8, covering prototype validation, piloting, demonstration, and pre-commercial readiness.
| TRL | Stage | Description |
|---|---|---|
| TRL 4 | Validated in lab | Small-scale prototype integrated at lab level. BIF funding begins here. |
| TRL 5 | Validated in relevant environment | Large-scale prototype; robustness proven in relevant conditions. |
| TRL 6 | Pilot demonstrated | Technology demonstrated across operating conditions; manufacturing defined. |
| TRL 7 | System prototype operational | Full-scale pre-commercial system demonstrated in operational environment. |
| TRL 8 | System complete & qualified | Technology proven in deployment; ready for low-rate production. BIF funding ends here. |
- Mining Technologies — Exploration, geology, ore processing, mineral beneficiation, safety, and efficiency.
- Clean Technologies — Renewable energy, energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste management.
- Agricultural & Health Technologies — Food security, agri-processing, medical solutions, and biotechnology.
- ICT & Digital Solutions — Software, fintech, AI, blockchain, IoT, and digital infrastructure.
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems — Solutions based on local plant and animal material with commercial application.
- Knowledge-Intensive Business Services (KIBS) — Value-added specialised services enabling the above sectors.
Applications are reviewed for compliance and then assessed on merit by an independent panel of experts from industry and academia. Assessment criteria include: innovation level, technical feasibility, market relevance, team capability, commercial potential, and socio-economic impact.
Funds are accessed through a prepaid, milestone-based approach. Each milestone is audited and verified before further disbursements are made.
The general rolling call is currently suspended until further notice. BIF is currently running the Scalar Botswana Innovation Programme (SBIP) Call for climate-tech and digital technology startups. Applicants should refer to the dedicated SBIP page and submission requirements.
The Fund offers a Conditional Grant:
- If successfully developed and commercialised: a nominal repayment not exceeding 50% of the grant over an agreed period.
- If developed but not commercialised (all obligations fulfilled): no repayment required.
- If obligations not discharged and project not commercialised: a portion of the grant must be repaid.
- A company may only have one (1) active project with BIF at a time.
- Subsequent applications may only be considered upon completion, cancellation, or formal withdrawal of the earlier project.
- You may re-submit an improved application once you have received formal feedback on an unsuccessful submission.