GCIP South Africa Gala 2025: Celebrating Cleantech Innovation and Impact

The GCIP South Africa Gala 2025, hosted by the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) in partnership with UNIDO, marked the culmination of another successful year of empowering South African innovators advancing the green economy.

Held under the theme “Innovating for Impact: Building a Sustainable Future,” the gala celebrated entrepreneurs and startups using science, technology, and creativity to address pressing environmental challenges while creating jobs and inclusive economic growth.

Recognizing Green Innovation

South Africa showcased solutions in renewable energy, waste management, water efficiency, sustainable agriculture, and green manufacturing. Their work reflects a growing national commitment to innovation that drives sustainability and competitiveness.

Awards were presented to innovators demonstrating outstanding environmental, social, and economic impact, including:

• Overall GCIP Winner 2025
• Most Promising Female-Led Startup
• Most Innovative Youth-Led Venture

A Platform for Collaboration and Growth

Keynote speakers from the Department of Science and Innovation, TIA, and UNIDO reaffirmed their dedication to supporting South Africa’s clean technology ecosystem. The gala emphasized that green innovation is not just about technology—it’s about people, partnerships, and shared purpose.

The event concluded with a renewed call to scale up support for entrepreneurs who are turning sustainable ideas into viable businesses, helping position South Africa as a continental leader in cleantech innovation.