DEDAT Opens R7 Million Tourism Growth Fund for 2026/27

The Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT) has officially opened applications for its 2026/27 Tourism Growth Fund. The initiative makes R7 million in grant funding available to help address critical supply-side constraints, enhance destination competitiveness, and drive regional visitor dispersal across the province.  

The funding pool targets municipalities, regional tourism organisations, and registered tourism SMMEs operating for at least two years. Support is structured across three core grant categories: infrastructure upgrades, product development, and business development initiatives.  

To stimulate geographic spread and counter seasonality, the fund prioritises projects outside the Cape Town metro that align with five key thematic areas:  

• Farm & Food: Gastronomy and agri-tourism offerings.  

• Village Ways: Khoe-San heritage, historic fishing communities, and mission stations.  

• Soul Journeys: Wellness and transformational travel experiences.  

• Jewel Towns: Enhancing product offerings in regional boutique towns.  

• Western Cape Trails: Upgrading nature-immersive walking, cycling, and avitourism infrastructure.  

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Complementing the main fund, DEDAT is also offering R50,000 micro-grants for startups and SMMEs that complete its specialized Experience Development and Wellness Master Classes.  

Applications must be submitted exclusively online through the official DEDAT portal. Applicants must hold valid tax compliance status and present necessary land, environmental, or heritage approvals where construction or site development is involved.