The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), in partnership with the Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development and Tourism, has opened applications for the Mpumalanga Tourism Youth Fund 2026 . This initiative provides crucial funding to young entrepreneurs operating in the province’s tourism sector .
Funding Opportunities for Youth in Tourism
The fund supports businesses across the tourism value chain, including accommodation, transport and travel, attractions and events, hospitality, wellness, and cultural industries . This programme aims to stimulate innovation, create jobs, and promote sustainable business growth, particularly in rural and underdeveloped areas .
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the NYDA Enterprise Development Portal:
- Visit: https://erp.nyda.gov.za
- Register and log in to your account
- Navigate to “Products and Services”
- Select “Mpumalanga Youth in Tourism Fund” and follow the application steps
The closing date for applications is 31 July 2026 .
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Submission of management accounts and business financial statements
- Business must employ, or be willing to employ, 51% or more young people
- Must not be a previous beneficiary of the Tourism Fund
- Must not have received government funding exceeding R350,000
Required Documents
Prepare the following supporting documents:
- Certified ID copy
- Proof of residence
- CV and qualifications
- 12 months business bank statement
- 6 months personal statement
- Formal business plan
- Proof of business registration
- Business bank confirmation letter
- Market proof or contracts (if applicable)
- Lease agreement or proof of ownership
- Quotations from 3 suppliers
Related opportunity: SEDFA Youth Entrepreneurship Fund: R5M Funding | Apply Now
Impact of the Fund
Recent funding cycles have seen significant impact, with 31 youth-owned tourism enterprises receiving R4-million in grant funding in January 2026 . The fund is part of a three-year Memorandum of Agreement between DEDT and NYDA, representing a strategic investment in Mpumalanga’s youth and tourism economy .
Don’t let your tourism business vision remain an idea – apply today!
Stay Updated
Want to stay informed about more funding opportunities,grants, business support programmes, tenders, incubators, training, and SMME resources in South Africa? Follow our updates on the StepApp Network:
- WhatsApp Channel: Follow StepApp Updates
- Facebook Page: Follow us
- WhatsApp Group: Join here
- LinkedIn Profile: Connect with StepApp
- X (Twitter): Follow StepApp SA on X
