As the world observes Literacy Month this September, Cape Town-based investment platform Innovation Edge, aims to amplify the need to innovate and empower caregivers in low-income communities with the necessary tools and resources with the launch notice of funding opportunity aimed at enhancing language development and literacy skills in children.
This unique opportunity is open to strong and dedicated entrepreneurs and social innovators with new, or existing ideas that can be adapted to help caregivers of zero to six-year-olds overcome this challenge. The goal is to provide practical tools and resources in multiple languages that support language and literacy development in young children.
“We believe that all children, regardless of their background, should have access to resources and tools that enable language and literacy acquisition,” Adliya van Niekerk, investment principal at Innovation Edge said, adding: “By providing funding and strategic support to innovative EdTech solutions, we hope to empower caregivers in under-resourced communities and improve the educational outcomes of children in their early years.”
Selected applicants will have the opportunity to receive funding of up to R1.5 million to develop and implement their ideas. In addition, they’ll also receive strategic support from the organisation, including access and connections to networks and partnerships, and guidance in scaling their solutions.
Innovation Edge is particularly interested in ideas that leverage EdTech platforms to overcome barriers to access for caregivers in low-income communities. Ideas should aim to enhance language development and literacy skills in children aged zero to six years of age.
Solutions can include mobile apps, interactive websites, interactive games, video and audio content, or any other innovative tool that can engage children and enhance their learning experience.
Applications are open from August 28 to September 30 (2023). Interested individuals can apply online by visiting this this link.
To learn more about the work the award-winning investment platform has been doing over its nine years of existence – in solving early childhood challenges in South Africa -visit www.innovationedge.org.za.
*Be empowered, be inspired: This story is part of the ‘Empower SA‘ awe-inspiring story series dedicated to individuals and organisations doing something extra for our beautiful country of South Africa.
