How to Apply for a SETA Discretionary Grant In South Africa, the SETA discretionary grants application process can unlock valuable funding for businesses, training providers, and organisations that want to support accredited skills development. These grants play a pivotal role in addressing scarce and critical skills across sectors while promoting inclusive economic growth.
In this guide, you’ll learn what discretionary grants are, who qualifies, and how to complete a successful SA SETA funding application—step by step.
What Is a Discretionary Grant?
Discretionary grants are non-compulsory funds allocated by a SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) to support strategic training and development programmes. These funds are part of a broader plan to:
- Promote learnerships, internships, and apprenticeships
- Address scarce and critical skills in different sectors
- Support youth employment and skills readiness
Discretionary grants differ from mandatory grants, which are automatically available to levy-paying employers that submit a WSP and ATR. Instead, discretionary grants are competitive and require a formal application.
Who Can Apply for a SETA Discretionary Grant?
You may be eligible for a discretionary grant if you fall under one of the following categories:
- Employers (levy-paying or exempt)
- Private and public training providers
- Universities, TVET colleges, and higher education institutions
- Non-profit organisations and NGOs
- Cooperatives and community-based organisations
- Skills development facilitators (SDFs) acting on behalf of an employer
Many SA SETA funding applications also allow for partnerships between training institutions and host employers to strengthen outcomes.
When to Apply for a Discretionary Grant
Each SETA opens what’s called a Discretionary Grant Funding Window, usually once or twice per financial year. These windows are announced on the SETA’s official website, newsletter, and social media platforms.
Applicants must respond within the window period and meet the published criteria. Late or incomplete applications are not accepted.
Steps to Apply for a SETA Discretionary Grant
Follow these steps to ensure a strong and compliant SETA discretionary grants application:
1. Identify the Relevant SETA
Each SETA funds training and development in a specific sector. Make sure you’re applying to the right SETA based on your industry:
- CETA – Construction
- MerSETA – Manufacturing and Engineering
- HWSETA – Health and Welfare
- W&RSETA – Wholesale and Retail
- ETDP SETA – Education and Training
(See the full list of SETAs in South Africa on our dedicated page.)
2. Check for Open Discretionary Grant Windows
Visit the SETA’s website and look under the “Funding Opportunities” or “Tenders” section. Download the latest Discretionary Grant Guidelines and verify:
- Application deadlines
- Priority training areas (e.g. youth, women, disabled learners)
- Required documents
- Grant amounts and available programmes
3. Prepare the Required Documentation
Most SA SETA funding applications will require the following:
- Company registration documents
- Tax clearance certificate or PIN
- BBBEE certificate or affidavit
- Proof of SETA registration
- Detailed project proposal
- Learner placement plan
- Accreditation certificates (for training providers)
- Signed declaration forms from SETA
Some SETAs require proposals to be uploaded on an online portal, while others accept email or hard-copy submissions.
4. Complete the Application Form
Ensure you:
- Select the right type of programme (learnership, bursary, skills programme, etc.)
- Provide accurate training targets and timeframes
- Align your project proposal with the SETA’s Sector Skills Plan (SSP)
- Explain how the grant will be implemented and monitored
Your SETA discretionary grants application will be scored based on merit, relevance, and alignment to national skills priorities.
5. Submit Before the Deadline
Submit your application on or before the specified deadline. Save confirmation emails or portal submission receipts for your records.
6. Await Feedback and Final Award
SETAs will review applications and publish results—often weeks or months later. Successful applicants are required to sign a Service Level Agreement (SLA) outlining:
- Number of learners funded
- Programme delivery milestones
- Reporting requirements
- Payment schedules
Tips for a Successful SETA Funding Application
- Read the Guidelines Carefully: Each SETA has different funding priorities.
- Align with Skills Development Goals: Focus on scarce or high-demand skills.
- Partner with Reputable Training Providers: Accreditation is key.
- Maintain Compliance: Non-compliant applicants are disqualified early.
- Follow Up: Don’t hesitate to contact the SETA if there’s a delay in feedback.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the application deadline
- Incomplete documentation
- Lack of alignment with the SETA’s strategic goals
- Proposing unrealistic project outcomes or budgets
- Not responding to SETA clarification requests
Avoiding these errors will increase your chances of receiving funding.
Conclusion
The SETA discretionary grants application process may seem daunting, but it offers excellent opportunities to fund skills development programmes across South Africa. Whether you’re a business aiming to upskill your team, or a training provider looking to scale impact, a well-prepared application can open doors to sustainable funding.
Stay up to date by monitoring SETA websites and preparing your documentation in advance. With careful planning, your SA SETA funding application can become the catalyst for real transformation in your sector.