Do I need to be registered to apply for these funds?
Most programmes require a CIPC-registered company, a valid tax clearance certificate (TCS PIN), and a business bank account. SEFA and NYDA both accept sole proprietors and close corporations.
How do I prove my business is viable when applying?
Lenders want to see 3โ6 months of bank statements, a simple business plan (even one page), and evidence of past jobs. JobOS lets you export a professional job history report instantly โ useful as supporting evidence.
Is B-BBEE certification required?
Not for most loans. NEF and DTIC programmes specifically target Black-owned businesses. For government tenders you will need a valid B-BBEE affidavit (EME level โ free for businesses under R10M turnover).
What is the CETA levy rebate and how does it work?
If you pay the Skills Development Levy (1% of your payroll via SARS), CETA gives up to 50% back as a Mandatory Grant if you submit a Workplace Skills Plan and Training Report annually. Discretionary grants cover apprenticeships.
Can a sole proprietor apply?
Yes. SEFA, NYDA, and most provincial funders accept sole proprietors. Converting to a (Pty) Ltd before applying improves approval rates for larger amounts.
How can JobOS help my funding application?
JobOS generates professional quotes, invoices, and job history reports that serve as revenue evidence for lenders. The bank reconciliation feature links your Rand income directly to your job records โ exactly what a funder needs to see.