Table of Contents
Step 1: Find Government Tenders relevant to your business
The first thing you need to do is find a Tenders or a RFQ that fits your business. Tenders and RFQ’s are advertised in various places, ranging from newspapers to websites.
You can find the Government’s weekly Tender bulletins right HERE, unfortunately it’s usually over 200 pages long.
Consequently, the easiest way to find the right Tenders and RFQ’s is probably Tender notification services.
A Tender notification service notifies you whenever there’s a new Tender available in your area that’s relevant to your business.
Helpful Tips
We offer three services that include a Tender Leads and Notification Service:
- A Monthly Tender Subscription Service
- A Once-off Industry Starter Package (which includes PTY Company registration)
- A Once-off Industry Starter Package (if you already have a registered PTY Company)
Step 2: Ensure your business can complete the job
Winning a Tender means two things: firstly, that the Government has chosen you as the most promising supplier and secondly, that you’re going to take on the Government as one of your clients.
Consequently you have to make sure you have the staff, the cash flow, the skills and the equipment to deliver the services the Government needs at the proposed rate and within the proposed timeframe – just like with any other client.
Luckily, if you don’t have the cash flow needed for a 2 to 3 year contract, there are funds and loans available from multiple institutions for Tenders.
Helpful Tips
- We offer a Tender Funding tool that connects you with over 300 funding options available, and assists you in finding the best loan / funding opportunities for your business, in South Africa.
- Our Business Plan service empowers your business with a plan of action to direct your Company and to assure potential funders and loaners of your Company’s competency.
Step 3: Register on the Central Supplier Database (CSD)
Your business has to be registered on the Central Supplier Database (CSD) in order to apply for Government Tenders.
The CSD is the Government’s list of approved suppliers. To get your business on this list, you have to complete an online registration on the National Treasury’s website where you’ll be required to provide your details along with compulsory Company documentation (also see step 4).
Once submitted, the Government will asses your documentation and add you if everything is in order.
Step 4: Get the required Company Documentation in order
Very often Companies apply for Government Tenders without complying with the list of requirements or without submitting the necessary documentation. Consequently will result in being eliminated before you even get a chance to compete with the other applicants.
Make sure you read the Tender Document thoughtfully and make sure you get all the required Company documentation in order.
- Standard Tender Package
- Industry Starter Package (which includes PTY Company registration)
- Industry Starter Package (if you already have a registered PTY Company
Step 5: Fill out your first Tender Application before the deadline
First of all, make sure you submit your application well before the closing date to avoid having an incomplete application, by the time of the deadline.
Allow yourself enough time to research what good Tender responses look like and how competitive your pricing can realistically be.
Step 6: Repeat the process until you reach Tender success!
Now that you’ve completed your first Tender application, the trick is mastering your Government Tender applications.
As a result of great, competitive Tender responses you’ll be paving your way to Tender success soon enough
Source: https://www.ptycompanyregistration.co.za/government-tenders/
Related Resources
Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.