The Jobs Fund, a National Treasury initiative, has officially opened its 13th funding round, presenting an opportunity for organisations with innovative ideas to create jobs and stimulate economic growth across South Africa, including in the agricultural sector.
By Lebogang Mashala, editor at African Farming
Launched under the theme “Catalysing Demand-Led Growth in the Green and Informal Economy”, thefunding round is open from 18 May to 30 June 2026. The Jobs Fund is seeking partnerships with experienced intermediaries from the private, public and non-profit sectors that can deliver scalable and sustainable employment opportunities, particularly in sectors with strong labour-absorption potential.
The aim of The Jobs Fund, established by National Treasury in 2011 and administered through the Government Technical Advisory Centre (GTAC), is to support innovative approaches to sustainable job creation. The R9 billion fund operates on challenge-fund principles, meaning allocations are awarded through a competitive process and require matched funding from successful applicants.
The fund is not designed as a mass employment programme, but focuses on projects that can create sustainable jobs and unlock economic opportunities in areas where traditional interventions may not be sufficient.
Also read: Beyond funding: Building black farmers, businesses and the future of South Africa’s food system
Agriculture’s Proven Success
Agriculture has already demonstrated the impact such partnerships can have. One of the fund’s flagship agricultural projects involved a collaboration between the Sernick Group, National Treasury and the Land Bank. Through the initiative, more than 1 000 emerging black farmers were integrated into the commercial agricultural value chain through accredited training, livestock improvement programmes and direct supply agreements.
The project not only improved the productivity and profitability of participating farmers, but also created employment opportunities and strengthened rural economies. It remains one of the strongest examples of how strategic investment can transform smallholder and emerging farmers into commercially viable producers.
Addressing the Unemployment Challenge
South Africa continues to face a severe unemployment challenge. Statistics South Africa’s Quarterly Labour Force Survey for the first quarter of 2026 indicated that the country’s unemployment rate stood at 32,7%, with young people and women experiencing the highest levels of joblessness. These realities highlight the need for innovative solutions capable of creating jobs at scale.
Since its inception in 2011, The Jobs Fund has committed R7,7 billion in public funding, and leveraged an additional R15,7 billion in matched contributions from partners. Through 180 projects across 12 funding rounds, the fund has supported the creation of more than 343 000 jobs and internships, and provided training opportunities to more than 418 000 work seekers and entrepreneurs, according to Treasury.
Also watch: Steenhuisen calls for state land ownership transfer to unlock farmer funding
Focus on the Green and Informal Economies
The latest funding round places special emphasis on the green and informal economies. For agriculture, this presents opportunities for projects linked to climate-smart farming, renewable energy, waste management, sustainable food systems and value-chain development. The fund is also looking for innovative solutions that address barriers such as limited access to finance, skills shortages, market access constraints and regulatory challenges.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to organisations with a proven track record of implementation and the ability to deliver measurable results within a three-year period. Successful applicants must demonstrate innovation, sustainability and a clear pathway to job creation. The minimum grant available is R5 million.
Applications close on 30 June 2026 at 3 pm. For agricultural organisations and agribusinesses with scalable employment-creation initiatives, the funding round offers an opportunity to access capital, unlock growth and contribute to building a more inclusive rural economy.
Also read:
‘R92 million for black farmers and there’s more to come’ – Kgodiso Development Fund
Funding agribusiness ventures: Legal considerations for investors and startups
