The Sector-Specific Assistance Scheme by the DTI

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Sector-Specific Assistance Scheme (SSAS) – Supporting South African Exports

The Sector-Specific Assistance Scheme (SSAS) is a reimbursable cost-sharing incentive that provides financial support to organisations promoting industry sector development and South African exports. The scheme targets Export Councils, Joint Action Groups, Industry Associations, and organisations supporting emerging exporters.

Objectives of the SSAS

The SSAS aims to:

  • Develop entire industry sectors;

  • Open and expand new export markets;

  • Stimulate job creation;

  • Broaden South Africa’s export base; and

  • Encourage participation of black-owned enterprises and SMMEs in the economy.

All projects funded under SSAS must be developmental or promotional, have measurable milestones, and primarily benefit the sector as a whole. Any research or databases produced through the programme become property of the DTI.

Components of the

Sector-Specific Assistance Scheme

The SSAS operates through three funding components:

1. Generic Funding (TISA)

Applicants submit SSAS Form A to the Export Council Secretariat. Organisations such as Export Councils, Industry Associations, or Joint Action Groups must consult the relevant DTI Sector Desk before applying. Existing associations also follow a formal recognition process with the DTI.

The DTI reserves the right to approve or reject applications and determine funding percentages. Once approved, applicants receive a Letter of Approval for Funding, and claims are submitted against invoices and proof of payment. Upfront payments are not allowed.

Applicants must provide a clear cost breakdown and comply with DTI procurement regulations, including obtaining three quotes for third-party services. For expenditures above R500,000, open tenders are required. Travel and freight must use DTI’s preferred service providers.

2. Project Funding (IDAD)

Qualifying sectors include: Aerospace, Rail, Marine, Agro-processing, Automotive, Business Process Outsourcing, Capital Equipment, Chemical Industries, Creative Industries, Electro-technical, Film Production, Metals, ICT Services, Tourism Services (investment-related), and Textile & Clothing.

Eligible expenditures include:

  • Export development costs (market research, consultancy, etc.)

  • Export promotion costs

  • Product development costs

  • Company development, including Quality Management System improvements

  • Service development

  • International advertising and publicity

Applicants cannot receive funding for activities already supported by other government schemes.

Non-eligible expenditures include:

  • Acquisition of capital or working assets for production

  • Generic funding activities

  • Employment costs

  • Foreign VAT or South African VAT

  • Routine administrative activities

  • Travel insurance and fuel costs

Applications must be submitted two months before project commencement, and late claims are not accepted. The DTI monitors projects to ensure milestones and objectives are achieved. Failure to meet objectives may require reimbursement of funds.

3. Project Funding for Emerging Exporters (IDAD)

This component assists emerging exporters with costs related to travel, accommodation, exhibition participation, marketing, and stand construction.

An emerging exporter must:

  • Be an SMME owned by South African nationals;

  • Offer an EMIA qualifying product or service;

  • Have traded locally for at least 12 months with limited or no exports;

  • Meet at least one of the following:

    • 51% ownership by black persons, women, or disabled individuals (HDIs); or

    • Annual turnover below R25 million.

Eligible entities for funding include Export Councils, Industry Associations, SEDA, business chambers, provincial agencies, local municipalities, and metropolitan councils.Sector-Specific Assistance Scheme

Qualifying Criteria for Sector-Specific Assistance Scheme Projects

To qualify, enterprises must:

  • Operate for more than 12 months;

  • Comply with statutory registration requirements (SARS, CIPRO, export registration);

  • Participate in a structured export development programme;

  • Stimulate participation of SMMEs and HDIs; and

  • Develop export markets in line with the National Export Strategy.

Funding covers up to 100% of eligible costs (max R1.9 million per project), including:

  • Local and international travel

  • Accommodation

  • Ground transport

  • Marketing materials

  • Transport of samples (excluding duties)

  • Exhibition costs

  • Sector-specific interventions and assistance

  • Insurance, bank charges, publicity, and interpreting fees

Projects may assist 10–20 entities per initiative. Products must have at least 35% local content. Non-participation costs are the responsibility of project coordinators

Contact Us FOR Sector-Specific Assistance Scheme

For guidance on applying and accessing funding under the Sector-Specific Assistance Scheme, contact Dream Team Capital.

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