The national government has announced the launch of a once-off R12 500 Youth Support Grant, aimed at empowering unemployed South Africans aged 18 to 35 to start businesses, pursue vocational training, or initiate community projects.
Applications will open on Friday, 15 August 2025, and the grant is exclusively for youth who are not currently receiving any other form of state financial assistance.
According to the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and SASSA, the programme is designed to reduce economic barriers for young people and foster grassroots development by providing start-up capital or training resources.
Who Can Apply
- South African citizens aged 18-35
- Not receiving other state-funded grants
- Must provide:
- Valid South African ID
- Proof of residence
- Recent bank account details
Applicants seeking to use the grant for business development are encouraged to submit a short business plan showing how the project will generate income or jobs.
How to Apply
- Prepare documents: ID, proof of address, and banking details
- Visit official websites:
- gov.za
- nyda.gov.za
- sassa.gov.za
- Register and verify: Create an online profile and verify contact details
- Complete and submit: Fill in the application form and upload all supporting documents
- Track your application: Monitor progress via the portal or SASSA helpline
Community Support Available
Local community centres and youth agencies will offer in-person assistance and workshops for applicants with limited internet access.
Support includes help completing forms and refining business or project proposals.
The NYDA has warned applicants to use only official channels and to be wary of scams.
“This grant offers young South Africans a real opportunity to kickstart a business or access training,” said a spokesperson.
“We encourage early preparation and vigilance against fraud.”
For updates, visit official government platforms or contact the NYDA and SASSA helplines.
Is this new Youth Support Grant something that may interest you?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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