Meta Description:
Services SETA invites accredited SDPs to apply for the 2025/26 Discretionary Grant EOI (Ref: DG-SP/2025-26/01). Applications open 11–16 February 2026.
The Services SETA has officially issued a targeted Expression of Interest (EOI) under its 2025/26 Discretionary Grant (DG) funding window.
This call, referenced as DG-SP/2025-26/01, invites accredited Skills Development Providers (SDPs) to apply for funding to implement Occupational Skills Programmes before the end of the financial year on 31 March 2026.
According to the notice, this targeted EOI follows insufficient learner pipeline submissions in the earlier call, prompting the Services SETA to reopen funding opportunities for qualified providers who can mobilise learners quickly and demonstrate implementation capacity.
Application Window: Important Dates to Note
📅 Opens: Tuesday, 11 February 2026 at 11h00
📅 Closes: Monday, 16 February 2026 at 11h00
Late submissions will not be accepted.
Manual or emailed applications are strictly prohibited. All submissions must be made online through the official Services SETA application portal.
An online briefing session will take place on 10 February 2026 at 11h00, and applicants are strongly advised to attend.
Purpose of the 2025/26 Discretionary Grant EOI
The objective of this targeted Expression of Interest is clear:
- Award Discretionary Grant funding to accredited SDPs
- Support implementation of approved Occupational Skills Programmes
- Ensure learner enrolment is completed by 31 March 2026
- Strengthen delivery capacity before the financial year closes
The SETA emphasises readiness, recruitment capability, and administrative compliance as critical selection criteria.
Targeted Occupational Skills Programmes
4
The EOI covers specific Occupational Skills Programmes aligned to sector priorities.
A full list of programme titles and duration requirements is available in the official EOI document.
Applicants must ensure:
- Accreditation matches the listed programme
- Programme scope aligns exactly with EOI requirements
- Delivery timelines allow enrolment by 31 March 2026
Failure to meet these criteria may result in disqualification.
Budget Availability
Funding under the 2025/26 Discretionary Grant is available for:
- Unemployed learners
- Employed learners
Detailed budget allocation tables are included in the EOI document.
It is important to note that submission of an application does not guarantee funding. Services SETA reserves the right to:
- Decline applications
- Part-fund applications
- Cancel the EOI process
All funding decisions are final and binding.
Who May Apply?
This opportunity is open strictly to:
- Accredited Skills Development Providers (SDPs)
- Providers with valid accreditation for the specific Occupational Skills Programmes listed
Preference will be given to SDPs that demonstrate:
- Strong learner recruitment pipelines
- Proven implementation history
- Administrative and reporting readiness
- Compliance with SETA requirements
Applicants must carefully review the briefing document before submission.
Mandatory Compliance Documents
To avoid immediate disqualification, SDPs must submit:
- Company registration documents
- Valid Tax Clearance or Exemption Certificate
- Valid accreditation documentation for relevant programme(s)
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Due Diligence and Supporting Documents
To demonstrate capacity and experience, SDPs may submit up to five of the following:
- Experience confirmation letters
- Programme closure reports (not older than five years)
- Host Employer Interest Letters
- Motivated declarations (for employed learner programmes)
These documents strengthen credibility and implementation readiness.
Online Submission Process
All applications must be submitted via the official Services SETA online application portal.
Download EOI Document
Key reminders:
- No manual submissions
- No emailed submissions
- Strict adherence to submission window
- Applications close automatically at 11h00 on 16 February 2026
If an Offer Letter is not received by:
- 23 February 2026 (as per summary notice)
- Or 25 February 2026 (as stated in extended communication)
Applicants should consider their application unsuccessful.
Offer Letters are planned for the week ending 20 February 2026.
Important Notice to Applicants
⚠ Submission does not guarantee funding.
⚠ Services SETA retains full discretion over funding decisions.
⚠ Funding awards may be declined, partially approved, or cancelled.
Applicants are encouraged to submit only if they meet all eligibility requirements and are operationally prepared to enrol learners immediately.
Why This Targeted EOI Is Significant
The reopening of this Discretionary Grant window highlights the SETA’s commitment to:
- Meeting sector training targets
- Addressing pipeline gaps
- Ensuring full utilisation of allocated training budgets
For accredited SDPs, this is a time-sensitive opportunity to secure funding and deliver Occupational Skills Programmes before the financial year closes on 31 March 2026.
Operational speed, compliance, and recruitment readiness will likely determine successful outcomes.
Contact for Enquiries
For questions related to this EOI, providers may contact:
Ensure all queries are submitted before the application deadline to allow adequate response time.
Final Reminder
The Services SETA 2025/26 Discretionary Grant Expression of Interest (Ref: DG-SP/2025-26/01) presents a short but strategic funding window for accredited Skills Development Providers.
With the application period running only from 11 to 16 February 2026, providers must act quickly, ensure full compliance, and demonstrate immediate learner enrolment capability.
Carefully review the official EOI document before submitting your online application.
