Funding for Poultry Farmers in South Africa

Government support for farmers

CASP (Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme). Run through your provincial Department of Agriculture. It supports smallholder and developing farmers with infrastructure, production inputs and training. Start with your local extension officer.

Land Bank Blended Finance Scheme. Run by the Land Bank with the Department of Agriculture, it combines a government grant with a Land Bank loan for black commercial, smallholder and medium-scale farmers. It is open but in 2026 demand is well above the funds available, so expect a long wait and apply with a complete business plan.

Small business funding

SEDFA (Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency). Formed on 1 October 2024 when sefa, Seda and the Co-operative Banks Development Agency merged. It offers loans and business support to small businesses. Agricultural projects are often a better fit for the farming programmes above, but SEDFA can suit a hatchery run as a small business.

NYDA (National Youth Development Agency). Grants and support for young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35.

Banks and asset finance. Commercial banks finance equipment for established farms with a trading history.

How to strengthen your application

• A simple business plan: who buys your chicks or eggs, how many, at what price.
• Real numbers: use the hatchery profit calculator to show profit per batch and payback.
• A formal supplier quotation: ask us for a written quote for the incubators and equipment you need. Most funders require one.
• Proof of land or premises and your ID and bank details.

Check before you apply

Funding rules, amounts and open application windows change often. Check the funder’s official website or office for current criteria, and be wary of anyone asking for a fee to “guarantee” a grant.