dtic's flagship programme for black-owned industrial businesses. Grant support of up to 30–50% of qualifying project costs.
The Black Industrialists Scheme is the dtic's flagship programme for black-owned businesses in the industrial economy. It provides a non-repayable grant of 30–50% of qualifying project costs for capital investment, technology, and market access — primarily for manufacturing, agro-processing, and industrial services.
This is not a true grant in the traditional sense — it's a cost-sharing incentive. The business must already have capital to fund the remainder, or have committed debt finance in place. A weak balance sheet disqualifies applicants before they get to the business case.
Financial Visibility · Business Substance · Use of Funds Logic · Ownership & Governance
CIPC registration, proof of 51%+ black ownership, BBBEE certificate (Level 4+), 2 years audited financial statements, detailed project plan with capital costs and job creation projections, proof of co-funding commitment, SARS tax clearance.
Apply through the dtic directly. The BIS application process involves an initial assessment, project evaluation, and approval committee. Timelines are long — budget 6–12 months from application to approval.
Apply at thedtic.gov.za or contact the dtic incentives unit for a pre-application assessment.
Take the free Readiness Check first. It takes 5 minutes and tells you exactly where you stand — before you spend time on an application.
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