The VVISDP is one of three work streams within the Support Programme for the National System of Innovation (SP4NSI) funded by the European Union (EU) and National Treasury to support the Government of South Africa to improve the National System of Innovation and respond to the priorities of the National Development Plan (NDP).

The VVISD is a programme implemented by the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) in partnership with the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) with funding from the European Union Sector Budget Support Programme and the National Treasury to help municipalities pilot technology and innovations that could assist in improving basic service delivery.

The programme focuses on supporting a small number of pilot projects that will serve to demonstrate the systemic viability of innovation(s) (or specific technologies) – for improving the access, availability acceptability, adaptability and quality of essential basic services with a view of promoting the realisation of socio –economic rights for all.