Services SETA grant window closed for 2026/27 applications

The Services Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) has closed its 2026/27 Discretionary Grant (DG) application window. The deadline was Tuesday, 9 December 2025. The grant supports South African organisations that build scarce and critical skills through accredited training and workplace learning.

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This cycle’s funding will support programmes implemented between April 2026 and March 2027.

Who applied for the grant?

Eligible applicants included:

• Sector employers
• Accredited Skills Development Providers (SDPs)
• Industry associations
• Trade unions and professional bodies

Programmes had to align with the Sector Skills Plan (SSP) 2025–2030 and the Annual Performance Plan (APP) 2025–2026.

What the grant supports

The DG funds a wide range of skills development initiatives focused on employment and inclusion. These include:

• Learnerships and apprenticeships
• Internships and workplace experience
• Skills programmes and bursaries
• Training focused on youth, women, and people with disabilities

Services SETA prioritised funding for programmes that support SMMEs, address hard-to-fill vacancies, and expand access to skills among previously excluded groups.

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2026/27 Discretionary Grant timeline

Useful links and documents

• Sector Skills Plan 2025–2030 (PDF)
• Annual Performance Plan 2025–2026 (PDF)
• SETA DG portal (for registered users)
• Enquiries: DGenquiries@serviceseta.org.za

What’s next?

Organisations that submitted applications will be notified of the outcome by March 2026. Successful applicants will receive funding agreements and are expected to begin implementation from 1 April 2026.

For those who missed the deadline, the next DG window is expected to open in late 2026 for the 2027/28 cycle.

“Our focus remains on building a capable workforce and supporting inclusive economic growth,” said Acting CEO Andile Sipengane.