The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) has embarked on a nationwide research drive to uncover why South African businesses are struggling to innovate in a shrinking economy burdened by rising input costs, unreliable infrastructure, and tightening access to capital.
Starting on Thursday, the HSRC and its partner Sigma Kairos Research and Consulting began fieldwork for two major surveys – the Business Innovation Survey (BIS) and the Agricultural Business Innovation Survey (AgriBIS) – across all nine provinces.
Commissioned by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), the surveys aim to collect evidence on how innovation occurs at firm level, what factors inhibit it, and how government can improve policy responses.
Dr Glenda Kruss, executive head of the HSRC’s Centre for Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators, did not mince her words: “South Africa has not made significant progress in transforming the structure of its economy to sustainably generate higher incomes and wealth for all.
“Economists propose the need for building dynamic sectoral clusters, which can link skills development, build technological capabilities such as design, testing and prototyping, and support firms to pool resources, create economies of scale and develop markets.”
According to Kruss, the survey data will help uncover the state of innovation at the ground level and inform both public and private investment decisions that are necessary to boost the country’s technological capabilities.
“Innovation is not simply about invention, it’s about capacity. It’s about systems, skills, and sustainability,” she said.
The fieldwork is being conducted through direct contact with business leaders and managers, who are asked to respond to the surveys either online or via telephone. The questions focus on innovations introduced between 2022 and 2024, reasons behind such innovations, or reasons for their absence.
Kgomotso Matjila, chief director for Science and Technology Investments at the DSTI, said: “To grow an inclusive economy in South Africa that is also productive and competitive, we need to design and provide the right kinds of support to incentivise and stimulate innovation investments by firms. For this, our national innovation surveys are an essential source of evidence.”
The HSRC has described the private sector’s participation in the surveys as critical for both national planning and for businesses seeking to measure themselves against peers.
Dr Amy Kahn and Dr Yasser Buchana, leading the BIS and AgriBIS respectively, are working alongside Sigma Kairos fieldworkers to ensure comprehensive coverage. The HSRC expressed gratitude to businesses who agree to participate.
“The information you provide is strictly confidential and contributes to building a future where innovation drives economic resilience and equity.”
Interested businesses are encouraged to respond promptly, as the fieldwork continues over the coming weeks.
Participation is voluntary, but the HSRC warns that policy built without input from businesses could miss the mark.
