Department of Trade and Industry and Competition (DTIC)
- Black Industrialists Scheme
- Strategic Partnership Programme
- Support Programme for Industrial Innovation
[Accessed July 27, 2023]
About Department of Trade and Industry and Competition (DTIC)
The Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (dtic) in South Africa is an amalgamation of the former Department of Trade and Industry and the Economic Development Department.
Its primary goal is to facilitate inclusive growth and development, foster global competitiveness, and promote structural transformation within the country.
Mandate and vision
Operating under a clear mandate and vision, the dtic aims to establish a dynamic industrial economy that encompasses significant economic transformation, equitable employment, and fairness. Its overarching objective is to create a predictable, competitive, and socially responsible environment that encourages investment, trade, and enterprise development.
Furthermore, the department focuses on expanding participation in the economy and enhancing the necessary skills and capabilities to effectively fulfill its mandate.
Programs for economic development
To achieve these goals, the dtic has implemented various programs that cover different aspects of economic development and policy implementation. These programs, such as Trade, Investment & Spatial Industrial Development, Sectors, Regulation, Incentives, Exports, Transformation and Competition, and Research, address specific areas such as trade facilitation, investment promotion, sectoral development, regulation, incentives for enterprise development, export capacity enhancement, and policy interventions through research.
The Incentives Program
One noteworthy program offered by the dtic is the Incentives program, which aims to stimulate and support the development of sustainable and competitive enterprises. This program provides accessible and effective incentive measures aligned with national priorities. Examples of these incentives include the Black Industrialists Scheme, Manufacturing Competitiveness Enhancement Programme, Agro-Processing Support Scheme, and Automotive Investment Scheme.
Collaboration with specialised agencies
The dtic also collaborates with specialised agencies and institutions to bolster economic growth, employment, and equity. Notable partners include the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission, Export Credit Insurance Corporation of South Africa, Competition Commission, and Industrial Development Corporation, among others.
Overall, the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition holds a pivotal role in driving economic development and cultivating a competitive business environment in South Africa. Through its programs and initiatives, such as enterprise and supplier development funds, it aims to create opportunities, support businesses, and promote sustainable growth across various sectors of the economy.
Department of Trade and Industry and Competition (DTIC) Services
In terms of Enterprise and Supplier Development funding, there are 6 programs that you will want to consider for your venture, these are:
- Black Industrialists Scheme (BIS)
- Sector Specific Assistance Scheme (SSAS)
- Strategic Partnership Programme (SPP)
- Support Programme for Industrial Innovation (SPII)
- Technology and Human Resource for Industry Programme (THRIP)
- Workplace Challenge Programme (WPC)
Since we can’t go into detail for each of these ESD programmes, we’re going to only cover the three that offer funding to businesses on the largest scale. Please note that more information on any of the above programmes is available on the official dtic website.
BIS business funding
The Black Industrialists Scheme (BIS) offers substantial business funding to black-owned enterprises in South Africa. This program provides financial support through grants, loans, and equity contributions to empower and enable black industrialists to establish, expand, and modernise their businesses. The funding aims to drive economic transformation by promoting sustainable growth, job creation, and increased participation of black-owned businesses in key sectors of the economy.
SPP business grants to drive collaboration
The Strategic Partnership Programme (SPP) provides significant business funding in the form of grants to foster partnerships between qualifying enterprises and private sector entities. This funding aims to enhance the competitiveness of participating businesses through financial support for activities such as capacity building, technology acquisition, market access, and research and development. The SPP plays a vital role in facilitating collaborative efforts to drive innovation, growth, and sustainability in the business landscape.
SPII business funding: Supporting industrial innovation
The Support Programme for Industrial Innovation (SPII) offers generous business funding through grants to support industrial innovation initiatives. This program aims to encourage and assist enterprises in developing new products, processes, and technologies that enhance their competitiveness and contribute to economic growth. The SPII funding supports research and development, prototyping, technology transfer, and commercialisation activities, enabling businesses to drive innovation and stay at the forefront of their industries.
Department of Trade and Industry and Competition (DTIC) – ESD Fund
- Loan Type ESD Funds
Benefits of Department of Trade and Industry and Competition (DTIC)
Black Industrialists Scheme (BIS)
- Substantial funding support for black-owned enterprises.
- Promotes sustainable growth, job creation, and increased participation in key sectors.
- Aims to drive economic transformation and competitiveness.
Strategic Partnership Programme (SPP)
- Provides grants for fostering partnerships with private sector entities.
- Enhances competitiveness through capacity building, technology adoption, and market access.
- Facilitates collaborative efforts for innovation, growth, and sustainability.
Support Programme for Industrial Innovation (SPII)
- Grants for industrial innovation initiatives, covering research and development, prototyping, and technology transfer.
- Encourages enterprises to develop new products, processes, and technologies.
- Drives competitiveness and contributes to economic growth and job creation.
Eligibility requirements and application process for dtic’s ESD programmes
Before making an application to any of the business funding programs mentioned, there are a few key factors to consider.
Firstly, thoroughly review the eligibility requirements of each program to ensure your business meets the criteria. Take the time to prepare a comprehensive business plan that clearly outlines your objectives, strategies, and financial projections.
It’s crucial to demonstrate how your business aligns with the goals and priorities of the specific program you are applying to. Additionally, pay attention to the required supporting documents and ensure they are accurate and up-to-date.
Lastly, seek professional advice or guidance if needed, as navigating the application process can be complex. By carefully considering these aspects and presenting a compelling case for funding, you can increase your chances of success and maximise the opportunities provided by these business funding programs.
Black Industrialists Scheme (BIS)
The Black Industrialists Scheme (BIS) offers substantial business funding to eligible black-owned enterprises in South Africa. To qualify, businesses must demonstrate black ownership and control, have a viable business plan, and operate in key sectors prioritised for industrialisation.
The funding amount varies based on the project's needs and can be provided in the form of grants, loans, or equity contributions. Interested entrepreneurs can apply directly to the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) or through designated implementing agencies.
Strategic Partnership Programme (SPP)
The Strategic Partnership Programme (SPP) provides business funding through grants to foster collaborations between qualifying enterprises and private sector partners. Eligible businesses need to showcase their strategic value, growth potential, and ability to contribute to job creation and economic development.
The funding amount provided by the SPP depends on the project's scope and objectives, covering various activities such as capacity building, technology adoption, and market access. Applications for the SPP can be submitted to the dtic or relevant partner institutions overseeing the program.
Support Programme for Industrial Innovation (SPII)
The Support Programme for Industrial Innovation (SPII) supports industrial innovation initiatives by offering business funding in the form of grants. Eligible enterprises must demonstrate their innovative nature, technical feasibility, and potential for commercialisation.
The funding amount offered by the SPII is project-specific and covers various stages of the innovation process, including research and development, prototyping, and technology transfer. Interested businesses can apply directly to the dtic or through technology stations and innovation support institutions associated with the SPII program.
Department of Trade and Industry and Competition (DTIC) Contact
Physical Address
- South Africa
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Opening Hours
- not available