The challenge began nine months ago when the City sought ideas that could change the world and accelerate innovation in Joburg.
Eighty six proposals were reduced to eight. Each of the eight finalists received R250 000 to build a prototype of their idea, and were offered in-depth technical support to improve their ideas and help them present their pitches.
These finalists presented their prototypes and businesses to a panel of judges including an independent team of entrepreneurs and technical experts.
MMC for Economic Development, Ruby Mathang, spoke at the prize-giving ceremony held at Resolution Circle Towers, citing the importance of developing a green economy as one of the City’s core strategic objectives.
“This is aligned with the National Development Plan, which calls for mutual benefits between sustainable development and low carbon [output], increasing employment and reducing inequality,” said Mathang. “It is also aligned with the provincial strategy which states ‘we will make the transition towards clean, innovative, resource-efficient, low carbon technologies and infrastructure’.”
An excited Paseka Lesolang from Pretoria took the first prize of R1 million for his Leak-Less Valve which prevents up to 70 percent of water loss in the case of a toilet leak.
Sean Moolman of PowerOptimal also based in Pretoria, was awarded R500 000 for his PowerOptimal power demand management technology which helps reduce peak power demand by 30 to 50 percent. For commercial customers this can mean a 20 percent saving on their electricity bill.
Local Killarney resident, Gabriel Ally of GezaJozi won R300 000 for his Recycle e-Trike – a 500W electrically-assisted tricycle. It is designed to double the output of trolley recyclers and improve their safety on the road. It can transport 150kg of recyclable waste over a distance of 50km.
Yolandi Schoeman from Pretoria-based Baoberry, also won R300 000 for her AqueouSphere floating treatment wetland that can help address the city’s water and sanitation challenges due to urbanisation.
Details: www.joburg.org.za
