DTIC Offers Textile and Clothing Grants – In a massive boost to South Africa’s manufacturing sector, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) has rolled out an empowering opportunity for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the textile and clothing industry. Eligible businesses now have the chance to apply for a grant of up to R300,000 aimed at modernizing production lines, creating employment opportunities, and positioning local factories to compete globally. This initiative, launched under the Clothing and Textiles Competitiveness Programme (CTCP), comes at a time when thousands of local factories are struggling with outdated machinery, rising operational costs, and a flood of cheap imports. The grant will support businesses in automating manual processes, enhancing energy efficiency, and introducing modern supply chain systems that can keep up with global demand. The grant is open until 31 December 2025, but industry experts suggest applying much earlier due to expected high volumes of applicants and limited annual allocations. This funding opportunity is not just about financial aid — it’s about redefining South Africa’s position in the global textile and apparel trade, providing a critical push toward sustainability, job creation, and economic revitalization. This article provides a detailed guide on eligibility, application process, benefits, deadlines, and contact details — everything South African factory owners need to know to grab this once-in-a-decade opportunity.
Who Can Apply for DTIC Offers Textile and Clothing Grants?
This section outlines the basic criteria and who the DTIC is targeting for the grant.
- South African-owned textile, clothing, leather, or footwear manufacturers
- Must be a registered business (Pty Ltd, Close Corporation, or Cooperative)
- Active taxpayer with SARS compliance
- Employs between 5 to 200 workers
- Uses local inputs or contributes to local supply chains
- Intends to modernize machinery, reduce energy usage, or improve quality control
- Must not have received a similar grant from DTIC in the past 2 years
Key Benefits of the DTIC Offers Textile and Clothing Grants
Businesses stand to gain more than just new equipment — here’s how the grant will make a difference.
- Modernize old machinery and upgrade to automated systems
- Improve product quality and increase factory output
- Reduce electricity usage and lower carbon emissions
- Enhance global competitiveness through better logistics and standards
- Create new employment opportunities and train existing staff
- Enable participation in export-oriented value chains
- Boost overall financial sustainability of the business
How to Apply for the DTIC Offers Textile and Clothing Grants
The application process is simple but requires attention to detail. Here’s how to get started:
- Download the CTCP application form from the DTIC website (www.thedtic.gov.za)
- Attach your company registration documents and SARS clearance certificate
- Include a modernization plan or machinery upgrade proposal
- Submit 12 months’ worth of financial statements
- Provide a breakdown of estimated costs (machinery, training, setup)
- Email your application to: [email protected]
- You will receive a reference number and a DTIC official will be assigned to guide you
Documents Required for Grant Application
Here’s a list of documents needed to process your application smoothly:
| Document Type | Mandatory | Format | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Registration Certificate | Yes | CIPC certified copy | |
| Tax Clearance Certificate (SARS) | Yes | Must be valid at submission | |
| Financial Statements (12 months) | Yes | PDF/Excel | Audited or signed by a certified bookkeeper |
| Business Plan or Upgrade Proposal | Yes | Clearly state goals, outcomes, and budget | |
| Quotes for Machinery/Training | Yes | Minimum 2 suppliers recommended | |
| Staff Training Plan (if applicable) | Optional | Word/PDF | Only if part of upgrade |
| Bank Confirmation Letter | Yes | For payment verification | |
| B-BBEE Certificate (if available) | Optional | Not mandatory, but adds value |
How Will the Grant Be Paid and Used?
Once your application is approved, DTIC will release the grant in specific stages based on progress.
- 40% upfront disbursement after approval and invoice verification
- 30% after halfway milestone (e.g. machine delivery or training commencement)
- 30% final payment after inspection and proof of implementation
- Funds are paid directly to vendors/suppliers (not to applicant’s personal account)
- Grant cannot be used to settle debts or buy used equipment
Timelines and Application Deadlines You Must Know
Time is of the essence. Businesses need to meet certain deadlines to ensure their application is considered.
| Timeline Stage | Deadline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Applications Open | 01 June 2024 | Already accepting applications |
| Early Bird Submission Deadline | 30 September 2025 | Priority given to early applicants |
| Final Submission Deadline | 31 December 2025 | No extensions will be granted |
| Review and Vetting Process | 4–6 weeks | From date of submission |
| Grant Approval Notification | 2 weeks post-vetting | Sent via email |
| Disbursement of Funds | Within 2 weeks of invoice verification | Paid in tranches |
Regional Priorities and Industrial Focus
DTIC will also give preference to certain provinces and industries under its national industrial development strategy.
- Priority Provinces: Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Free State
- Target Sectors:
- School uniform manufacturers
- Protective gear and workwear producers
- Sustainable textile producers
- Township-based cooperatives
- Preference to women-owned and youth-owned enterprises
Tips to Improve Your Grant Approval Chances
A well-prepared application can increase your chances. Keep these things in mind:
- Clearly outline how the grant will improve production and employment
- Use professional quotes from reputed machinery vendors
- Submit neat, well-organized documents in a single email
- Align your plan with DTIC’s goals of local job creation and global competitiveness
- Include training, sustainability, and community benefit angles
What Happens After You Receive the Grant?
Once funding is secured, DTIC will monitor usage and offer support.
- Site visits will be conducted at key milestones
- You may be asked for progress reports every 3 months
- You must retain all invoices and receipts for auditing
- Training workshops may be offered for using new machinery
- Successful grantees might be featured in DTIC trade expos or websites
Contact Details for Grant Assistance and Submission
If you need guidance or want to follow up, here are the key contacts:
| Department/Office | Contact Person | Phone Number | |
|---|---|---|---|
| DTIC – CTCP Grant Office | Ms. Lindiwe Nkosi | [email protected] | 012 394 1100 |
| DTIC General Enquiries | Helpdesk | [email protected] | 0861 843 384 (DTIC) |
| Regional Office – KZN | Mr. Sipho Dlamini | [email protected] | 031 538 5000 |
| Regional Office – Gauteng | Ms. Lerato Maluleka | [email protected] | 011 355 8000 |
| Business Support Helpline | National Hotline | [email protected] | 0800 212 222 |
South African factories in the textile and clothing sector are at a pivotal point. With global pressures rising and local job markets tightening, the DTIC R300,000 grant offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to pivot toward modernization and competitiveness. Don’t wait till December — apply early and secure the funding that could redefine your business’s future.
FAQs of DTIC Offers Textile and Clothing Grants
Q1: Is this grant repayable?
No, this is a non-repayable grant for qualifying businesses.
Q2: Can I use the grant to buy used equipment?
No, only new machinery and approved upgrades are eligible.
Q3: I operate in a rural area. Do I still qualify?
Yes, in fact, rural-based and township-based factories are given priority.
Q4: Can a sole proprietor apply?
No, the applicant must be a registered legal entity (e.g., Pty Ltd or Co-op).
Q5: What happens if my application is rejected?
You’ll receive feedback and can reapply in the next cycle with adjustments.