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Applications are now open for the Cooperative Development Support Programme (CDSP), which provides grant funding to support cooperative businesses in South Africa.
The programme is administered by the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA) and aims to support 50 cooperatives to improve operations, increase production efficiency and expand their activities.
The application deadline for the current funding round is 20 March 2026.
What the programme supports
The CDSP grant helps cooperatives acquire assets and systems that strengthen their operations and improve sustainability.
Funded support may include:
- Machinery and equipment
- Raw materials or business stock
- Commercial vehicles linked to operations
- Information and communication technology (ICT) systems
- Infrastructure such as irrigation systems and boreholes
The programme focuses on improving production capacity, product quality and access to markets for cooperative businesses.
How much funding cooperatives can receive
The maximum funding available depends on the type and size of the cooperative applying.
| Cooperative category | Maximum funding |
|---|---|
| Startup cooperatives | Up to R1.5 million |
| Expansion cooperatives | Up to R2.5 million |
| Secondary or cluster cooperatives | Up to R5 million |
The funding is provided as a 100% grant, meaning approved projects do not need to repay the funds if used according to programme guidelines.
Who qualifies for the programme
The CDSP funding is open to cooperatives operating in different sectors of the economy.
To qualify, cooperatives must:
- Be registered in South Africa under the Co-operatives Act
- Have a majority of black members
- Follow cooperative governance principles
- Be willing to participate in training and business development programmes
Documents required for the application
Applicants must submit supporting documents with their application form.
These include:
- A cooperative business plan or funding proposal
- SARS tax registration documents
- CIPC registration documents
- Certified ID copies and CVs of directors
- Latest bank statements
- Financial statements or financial projections
- Three supplier quotations for requested equipment or materials
Additional documents may be required depending on the cooperative’s sector and funding request.
How to apply
Cooperatives must download and complete the official application form before submitting their application.
Application form:
https://tr.ee/z7KkSc
Applicants should carefully complete all sections of the form and ensure that the information submitted is accurate.
According to the application guidelines, providing incorrect or misleading information may lead to disqualification from the programme.
Important deadline
Applications for the Cooperative Development Support Programme close on:
20 March 2026
Cooperatives are encouraged to prepare their documents early to avoid missing the submission deadline.
