The Gauteng Enterprise Propeller (GEP), an initiative of the Gauteng Provincial Government, has opened its Manufacturing Support Programme to eligible Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) operating in the manufacturing sector and its subsectors across Gauteng. Successful applicants can access funding of up to R5 million to support business growth, capital investment, job creation, and operational resilience. Applications close on 27 February 2026, and all submissions must be made via the official online portal.
This is a high-impact opportunity for manufacturing businesses seeking strategic investment to scale, modernise, or diversify—without equity dilution.
Eligibility: Who Qualifies?
To be considered, businesses must meet all the following criteria:
- Be Gauteng-based (registered and operating in the province)
- Operate in the manufacturing sector (including agro-processing, engineering, textiles, furniture, plastics, metal fabrication, etc.)
- Be classified as an SMME (annual turnover ≤ R50 million)
- Be at least 51% Black-owned (as defined by the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act)
- Have audited financial statements for the last two years
- Maintain up-to-date management accounts and bank statements (12 months)
- Be statutorily compliant (SARS, CIPC, COIDA, municipal rates, etc.)
Start-ups with strong business plans may be considered on a case-by-case basis if they demonstrate clear manufacturing intent and job-creation potential.
Application Process: Simple, Digital, and Transparent
Applicants must:
- Review the full Checklist & Application Guidelines (available via the application portal)
- Complete the online form via the secure Microsoft-powered portal
- Upload supporting documents:
- Certified ID copies of directors/shareholders
- CIPC registration certificate
- Audited financial statements (2 years)
- Management accounts (12 months)
- Bank statements (12 months)
- B-BBEE Certificate or sworn affidavit
- Business plan and project proposal
No hard copies or email submissions will be accepted.
How to Apply: Secure Portal Access
Applications are submitted exclusively through the GEP portal:
Apply Now: GEP Manufacturing Support Programme
For guidance, download the Application Checklist & FAQs from the portal homepage.
Support & Next Steps
GEP offers pre-application support through:
- Webinars (scheduled weekly until closing date)
- One-on-one sessions with GEP business advisors (booked via the portal)
- Dedicated email support: ManufacturingFund@gep.co.za
All applications will undergo due diligence, financial viability assessment, and impact evaluation. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for virtual interviews. Final awards will be announced by mid-April 2026.
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