Why the CIE exists
The CIE creates a supportive environment where entrepreneurs can learn, test ideas, and develop practical solutions. It connects skills development with real product and business opportunities.
About SA Rebuilders
A centre built around people, skills, and practical innovation.
SA Rebuilders operates the Waste2Product CIE Centre for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, supporting individuals as they build knowledge, develop products, and grow business ideas.
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Great ideas become meaningful when people are given the skills and support to build them.
Centre for Innovation & EntrepreneurshipWhat the centre aims to create
Stronger entrepreneurs, better-developed products, useful technical skills, and more opportunities for local economic participation.
Core Areas
What the centre supports
Four practical areas work together to help innovators move from learning to product development.
01
Chemical Formulation
Supports the development of cosmetic and nutraceutical products, including formulation guidance, product testing, regulatory preparation, and steps toward market entry.
- Cosmetic and nutraceutical formulation support
- Testing and quality-development guidance
- Regulatory and market-readiness support
- Turning raw ideas into value-added products
02
Agroprocessing
Provides practical exposure to food processing, with a focus on artisanal butter, packaging, and making better use of production by-products.
- Butter-making skills and production practice
- Packaging and product handling
- By-product utilisation and waste reduction
- Pathways into employment and enterprise
03
3D Printing Design
Gives innovators access to modern design and prototyping tools so they can test, improve, and demonstrate product ideas before larger-scale production.
- 3D design and printing technology
- Prototyping and product-design practice
- Practical support for STEM graduates
- Moving concepts toward market-ready solutions
04
Engineering & Plastic Recycling
Combines sustainable engineering with recycling methods to create practical equipment, prototypes, and circular-economy opportunities.
- Portable recycling machinery development
- Sustainable engineering and recycling skills
- Moulds, prototypes, and small-batch production
- Enterprise opportunities built from waste innovation
The CIE Process
How support moves from outreach to opportunity.
1
Recruit
Connect with potential entrepreneurs through outreach material, community engagement meetings, and local networks. The aim is to identify people with ideas, practical interests, and the willingness to build something sustainable.
2
Prepare
Prepare training content, manuals, facilitator guides, and practical resources so participants can learn in a structured and useful way.
3
Train & Incubate
Deliver training, assess progress, gather feedback, and identify promising product or business ideas that can move into incubation and mentorship.
4
Formalise
Help selected innovators formalise their work through business registration, intellectual-property support, and qualification registration where relevant.
5
Support Growth
Support innovators after prototyping by helping with market access, partnerships, fundraising opportunities, and a stronger plan for long-term sustainability.
CIE Outcomes
What the programme is working toward
The CIE is designed to create practical results for innovators, the centre, and the wider community.
Participants receive training and support aimed at helping them operate more independently and confidently.
Selected ideas are developed into clearer, testable products that can move closer to launch and future sales.
The project supports an upgraded innovation and prototyping environment for continued learning and development.
The programme includes support for business registration, intellectual property, and recognised occupational qualifications.
Engagement sessions help strengthen local relationships and create more inclusive opportunities around innovation.