Mandatory vs Discretionary Grants
Understanding the difference is the first step to maximising your skills levy recovery.
Mandatory Grant (20%)
- Guaranteed if you submit a compliant WSP/ATR
- Worth 20% of your total SDL paid
- Deadline: 30 April each year to your SETA
- Requires accurate training data and evidence
- Most companies already claim this — but many submit non-compliant reports
Example: R15M payroll → R150,000 SDL → R30,000 mandatory grant
Discretionary Grant (up to 49.5%)
- Not guaranteed — awarded competitively by each SETA
- Worth up to 49.5% of your total SDL paid
- Application windows vary by SETA (see below)
- Requires a detailed project proposal and compliance history
- Funds learnerships, internships, skills programmes, and bursaries
- Most companies never apply — leaving millions unclaimed
Example: R15M payroll → R150,000 SDL → up to R74,250 discretionary grant
The Discretionary Grant Application Process
Proacto manages the entire process from start to finish.
Eligibility & Compliance Audit
We review your SDL payment history, WSP/ATR submission status, and training compliance to confirm eligibility and identify the strongest grant categories for your application.
SETA Landscape Analysis
Each SETA has different funding priorities, criteria, and application windows. We analyse the current SETA Strategic Plan (SSP) to align your proposal with their funding priorities.
Project Proposal Development
We develop a detailed training project proposal including learner numbers, NQF levels, implementation timelines, budgets, and expected outcomes — structured to score maximum points.
Application Submission
We compile all supporting documentation, complete the application forms, and submit within the SETA's application window — often weeks before the deadline to allow for queries.
Adjudication Support
If the SETA requests additional information or clarification during adjudication, we manage all correspondence and provide supplementary evidence as needed.
MoA & Implementation
Once approved, we help negotiate the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA), set up reporting structures, and manage implementation to ensure full grant disbursement.
SETA Discretionary Grant Application Windows
Each SETA opens applications at different times. Missing the window means waiting another full year. Proacto tracks all 21 SETA timelines so you never miss a deadline.
* Application windows are indicative and may change each financial year. Proacto monitors official SETA communications to ensure timely submissions.
Why Corporates Choose Proacto for Grant Applications
Proven Track Record
We've successfully secured discretionary grants across multiple SETAs for clients in mining, agriculture, finance, manufacturing, and services.
Dedicated Grant Specialists
Our team includes former SETA employees who understand the internal adjudication process, scoring criteria, and what makes a winning application.
Corporate-Grade Service
We work with JSE-listed companies and large corporates, managing complex multi-SETA applications with rigorous compliance and reporting.
Maximum Recovery Focus
We don't just apply — we structure your training programmes to qualify for the highest possible grant amounts and B-BBEE scorecard benefits simultaneously.