The Global Business Services (GBS) Incentive, administered by the dtic, is designed to attract and grow the offshoring and business process outsourcing (BPO) sector in South Africa. By providing a financial incentive to companies that create jobs servicing international clients from South African operations, the programme aims to make South Africa a competitive destination for global business services.
The primary objective is to create sustainable employment in South Africa through the servicing of offshore (international) clients and activities. The secondary objectives include creating employment opportunities specifically for young people aged 18 to 34, and contributing to the country’s export revenue through offshoring service income.
The incentive has been operational since 1 January 2019. Applicants are directed to obtain application forms directly from the dtic business unit via dedicated email addresses. A notice regarding the status of the incentive programme was issued in January 2026, which applicants and current beneficiaries should review.
Application forms and the full programme guidelines are available from the dtic on request via the contact email addresses listed below. The programme covers services provided to offshore principals or clients, and applicants must demonstrate job creation and the nature of the offshore services provided.
The GBS Incentive is aimed at:
The incentive is targeted at established or growing companies capable of onboarding and managing international service delivery from South Africa.
The GBS Incentive provides a cash grant based on employment creation for offshore service delivery. The specific grant amounts and rates per employee are detailed in the programme guidelines, which are available from the dtic on request.
The incentive is designed to offset operational costs associated with delivering offshore services, thereby improving the competitiveness of South African GBS operators in the global market. Full details of the benefit calculations, qualifying thresholds, and payment structures are contained in the GBS Incentive Guidelines.
Key eligibility requirements include:
Full eligibility criteria, minimum employment thresholds, and qualifying service categories are detailed in the programme guidelines available from the dtic.
You likely qualify if:
You likely do not qualify if:
Applicants must provide details of the offshore services delivered, the international clients being serviced, employment numbers and age profiles of staff, and evidence of offshore service contracts or agreements.
No specific collaboration or partnership requirement stated. However, the programme requires that services be delivered to offshore (international) clients.
Applications: GBSapps@thedtic.gov.za
Claims: GBSclaims@thedtic.gov.za
Enquiries: GBScontact@thedtic.gov.za
Programme Guidelines: GBS Incentive Guidelines (PDF)
Application Form: GBS Application Form (ZIP)
Programme Status Notice (January 2026): Notice to GBS Sector (PDF)
Most applications are delayed or declined due to incomplete submissions. Preparing the items below upfront will significantly improve your chances.
Core documents (required for almost all funds)
Project‑specific documents (depending on the fund)
Additional requirements
Timelines vary by fund and depend heavily on the quality and completeness of your application.
Email Address: NFMcustomercare@thedtic.gov.za
Mr. Mahlatse Mothapo: 012 394 3554 / 082 903 5845
Ms. Jane Mtshali: 012 394 1385
Email Address: NGLcustomercare@thedtic.gov.za
Mr. David Molefe: 012 394 1262
Ms. Selinah Swaratlhe: 012 394 1140
Email Address: WCcustomercare@thedtic.gov.za
Mr. Elias Rafapa: 021 480 8064 / 063 688 6466
Mr. Vuyo Zitha: 021 480 8055 / 066 306 8424
Ms. Monica Masangwana: 021 480 8063 / 082 647 3611
Email Address: ECcustomercare@thedtic.gov.za
Mr. Andre Le Grange: 041 502 9000 / 060 753 0751
Mr. Simphiwe Ngonyama: 060 753 0663
Ms. Princess Konza: 072 295 4806
Email Address: KZNcustomercare@thedtic.gov.za
Mr. Wiseman Myeni: 076 129 9697
Ms. Rajeshri Sardha: 072 295 1480
Ms. Neela Govender: 072 296 0369
Ms. Constance Gumede: 072 296 1837
Use the following tools to help you apply:
