Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to identify and appoint enterprises capable of developing and commercializing biotechnological solutions for the beneficiation of hemp and cannabis. Specifically, the initiative aims to support small enterprises and entrepreneurs in converting hemp and cannabis biomass into biofuels and bio-based materials, thereby fostering local value addition, industrial development, and economic growth within the Eastern Cape region.

Scope

The scope of this EOI encompasses:

• Development and optimization of processes to convert hemp and cannabis biomass into biofuels (e.g., biodiesel, biogas) and bio-based materials.
• Support for enterprises involved in product and process development, enterprise development services, compliance testing, and commercialization.
• Addressing barriers faced by small farmers and emerging enterprises in processing and value addition within the hemp and cannabis sectors.
• Provision of technical, enterprise, and market development support to facilitate scaling from prototype to commercial production.

Technical Requirements

Respondents must demonstrate:

• Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of at least 4, indicating proof of concept and prototype testing.
• Existing technical capability, including evidence of validation, testing, and demonstration in relevant environments.
• Potential for scalability and sustainability of the proposed technology or process.
• Alignment with the targeted value chain segments, such as biofuels or bio-materials.
• Innovation, uniqueness, and potential for local beneficiation and industrial application.
• Capacity to generate intellectual property and contribute to local industrial development.

Skills Requirements

Applicants should possess:

• Technical expertise in biotechnology, biomass conversion, and process engineering.
• Experience in developing biofuel or bio-based material technologies, including prototype development and testing.
• Capability to scale processes from laboratory to pilot and industrial levels.
• Strong project management and enterprise development skills.
• Ability to collaborate with local stakeholders, farmers, and industry partners.
• Knowledge of regulatory and compliance standards relevant to bio-based products and cannabis/hemp sectors.