Biogas Production & Safety
- Introduction to biogas technology
- Waste collection and feedstock preparation
- Biodigester operation and maintenance
- Biogas scrubbing and compression (planned)
- Safety and handling
Igniting Rural Innovation
The AGT Centre of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) is a groundbreaking initiative based on the farm, Springgrove Estate in Lothair, Mpumalanga, dedicated to transforming rural communities through practical training in biogas technology and sustainable agriculture. We are building a future where clean energy, food security, and economic opportunity are accessible to all.
+1000+
Rural residents to be trained by 2031
+2000+
Jobs to be created through trainee initiatives by 2031
m+R10m+
Revenue to be generated by trainee initiatives by 2031
What we do at AGT CIE
Practical training, sustainable agriculture, enterprise development, and professional facilities for rural communities.
Biogas Technology Training
We offer hands-on training in biogas technology—from waste collection and biodigester operation to biogas scrubbing, cylinder compression, and safety. Our training is practical, accessible, and designed for rural communities. Participants learn how to produce clean cooking fuel from organic waste and how to maintain and operate biogas systems.
Sustainable Agriculture & Demonstration Sites
On our 10-hectare demonstration farm, we showcase regenerative farming practices that restore soil health, increase yields, and build climate resilience. We train farmers in the use of organic biofertilizer (a co-product of biogas production) as a soil amendment and alternative to expensive chemical fertilizers. Our demonstration sites feature crops suited to the Gert Sibande region.
Enterprise Development
We help beneficiaries—women, youth, people with disabilities, and school leavers—develop business plans, write funding proposals, and pitch to organizations like TIA and other funders. Our goal is to nurture the next generation of rural entrepreneurs.
Conference & Training Facilities
Our conference room at Springgrove Estate provides a professional space for workshops, training sessions, community meetings, and stakeholder engagements. We welcome partners, funders, and community groups to use our facilities.
Training Programmes
Build practical skills in biogas production, regenerative agriculture, and enterprise development through hands-on training tailored to rural communities.
Regenerative Agriculture
- Soil health and restoration
- Biofertilizer application
- Crop selection and rotation
- Water-efficient farming
- Climate-resilient practices
Enterprise Development
- Business plan development
- Funding proposal writing
- Pitching to investors and funders
- Financial literacy
- Marketing and sales
Biogas Production & Safety
Learn to turn organic waste into clean energy, operate biogas systems, and handle production safely.
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What you’ll learn
- Introduction to biogas technology
- Waste collection and feedstock preparation
- Biodigester operation and maintenance
- Biogas scrubbing and compression (planned)
- Safety and handling
Duration & Delivery
Courses range from 1-day workshops to multi-week programmes. Training is delivered at Springgrove Estate and in communities. All courses are practical, hands-on, and tailored to rural contexts.
Practical Support for Rural Growth
From hands-on demonstrations to enterprise mentorship, we help communities put new skills into practice.
- Practical biogas and farming demos.
- Mentorship for aspiring rural entrepreneurs.
- Training workshops at Springgrove Estate.
- Funding proposal and business-plan support.
How To Get Involved
Join us in building a sustainable rural future through training, collaboration, and partnerships.
For Communities
- Enrol in a training programme
- Join a demonstration day
- Partner with us on a community project
For Funders & Investors
- Support our Phase 2 expansion
- Sponsor a trainee or a demonstration plot
- Partner with us to scale impact
For Government & Academia
- Collaborate on research and policy
- Use our facilities for training and workshops
- Partner on rural development initiatives
For Industry
- Access a pipeline of trained biogas technicians and regenerative farmers
- Partner on technology demonstration
- Sponsor training equipment or materials
Frequently Asked Questions
Build Your Future With AGT CIE
Ready to build practical skills or support rural innovation? Apply for training or partner with us to grow sustainable communities.