What is GEP?
The Gauteng Enterprise Propeller (GEP) is the official development finance institution of the Gauteng Provincial Government. Established to accelerate SMME growth in Gauteng, GEP provides both financial and non-financial support to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and sustain their businesses.
GEP at a Glance
- Who: Gauteng Provincial Government agency
- What: Financial and non-financial SMME support
- Funding Range: R1,000 to R5 million
- Interest Rates: Below market rates (subsidised)
- Target: Black-owned businesses in Gauteng
GEP operates as a one-stop shop for SMMEs, offering not just funding but also business development support, training, mentorship, and market access programmes.
GEP Funding Programmes
GEP offers several funding programmes tailored to different business needs and stages. Here's a comprehensive overview:
| Programme | Amount | Term | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start-up Finance | R10,000 - R500,000 | 3-5 years | Launch a new business |
| Contract Finance | R50,000 - R1,500,000 | Contract term | Fulfil awarded contracts |
| Growth Finance | R100,000 - R5,000,000 | 3-7 years | Expand existing business |
| Franchise Finance | R100,000 - R2,000,000 | 3-5 years | Purchase a franchise |
| Micro-finance | R1,000 - R50,000 | 6-24 months | Very small businesses |
Programme Details
Start-up Finance
Ideal for entrepreneurs with a solid business idea who need capital to get started. Requires a comprehensive business plan demonstrating market research, financial projections, and operational planning.
Contract Finance
Designed for businesses that have secured contracts (typically from government or large corporates) but lack working capital to fulfil them. The contract itself serves as security for the loan.
Growth Finance
For established businesses looking to expand operations, purchase equipment, hire staff, or enter new markets. Requires at least 12 months of trading history.
Franchise Finance
Helps entrepreneurs purchase approved franchises. GEP has partnerships with various franchise brands and can fund up to 80% of the franchise cost.
Micro-finance
Quick-turnaround small loans for informal traders and very small businesses. Simplified application process with minimal documentation requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for GEP funding, your business must meet the following criteria:
South African Citizen
All shareholders/members must be South African citizens with valid ID documents.
Gauteng-Based Business
Your business must be physically located and operating within Gauteng Province. Proof of business address required.
Owner-Operated
At least one shareholder must be actively involved in the day-to-day management of the business.
51%+ Black Ownership
The business must be at least 51% black-owned. This includes Black African, Coloured, and Indian South Africans.
CIPC Registered
Business must be registered with CIPC as a company, close corporation, or cooperative.
Tax Compliant
Must have a valid tax clearance certificate or TCS-PIN from SARS. No outstanding tax obligations.
Priority Groups
GEP gives preference to businesses owned by:
- Women (at least 51% women ownership)
- Youth (owners under 35 years old)
- People with disabilities
- Military veterans
Check Your Compliance Status
Not sure if you meet all the requirements? Use Okhantu's compliance tools to verify your CIPC registration, tax status, and B-BBEE level before applying.
Use Compliance ToolsApplication Process
GEP has streamlined its application process with an online system. Here's how to apply:
Register on GEP Online System
Visit www.gep.co.za and create an account. You'll need your ID number, email address, and basic business information.
Complete Online Application
Fill in the detailed application form. Select the appropriate funding programme and provide comprehensive business information including:
- Business description and history
- Purpose of funding
- Requested loan amount
- Repayment period preference
Upload Required Documents
Submit all required documents through the online portal. Ensure documents are clear, complete, and in PDF format.
GEP Assessment
A GEP business advisor reviews your application, verifies documents, and assesses business viability. They may contact you for clarification or additional information.
Site Visit (If Required)
For larger loans (typically above R500,000), GEP may conduct a site visit to verify your business premises, operations, and assets.
Credit Committee Decision
Your application goes to the GEP credit committee for final approval. This typically takes 1-2 weeks. You'll be notified of the outcome via email and SMS.
Contract Signing and Disbursement
If approved, you'll sign the loan agreement at a GEP office. Funds are typically disbursed within 3-5 working days after signing.
Pro Tip: Prepare Before Applying
GEP applications that are well-prepared with all documents ready have a much higher success rate. Spend time on your business plan and ensure all compliance documents are current.
Required Documents
Prepare the following documents before starting your application:
CIPC Registration Documents
COR14.3 (company registration certificate) or CK1 (close corporation founding statement). Must be in good standing.
Tax Clearance Certificate (TCS-PIN)
Valid tax clearance from SARS. Can be obtained via eFiling. Must show "Good Standing" status.
How to get a TCS-PIN →6 Months Bank Statements
Business bank account statements for the last 6 months. GEP assesses cash flow and financial management.
Business Plan
Required for Start-up Finance and Growth Finance. Should include executive summary, market analysis, financial projections (3-5 years), and operational plan.
Proof of Business Address
Lease agreement, utility bill, or rates clearance showing your Gauteng business address.
Certified ID Copies
Certified copies of ID documents for all shareholders/members. Certification must be within 3 months.
B-BBEE Certificate or Affidavit
Valid B-BBEE verification certificate, or sworn EME/QSE affidavit if qualifying as Exempted Micro Enterprise.
B-BBEE guide →Contract Document (Contract Finance Only)
Signed contract or letter of award from the contracting entity. Must show contract value, duration, and scope.
Need Help with Your Business Plan?
A well-prepared business plan can make or break your GEP application. Consider working with a professional to ensure your plan meets GEP's requirements and showcases your business potential.
Find Business Plan Writers in GautengTax Clearance Issues?
Many GEP applications are delayed or rejected due to tax compliance issues. If you have outstanding tax matters, get professional help to resolve them quickly.
Find Tax Practitioners in GautengSpecial Programmes
Beyond the standard funding programmes, GEP offers specialised initiatives for specific sectors and groups:
Township Economy Partnership Fund (TEPF)
Specifically designed for businesses operating in townships. Offers preferential rates and simplified requirements for township-based enterprises.
- Funding: R50,000 - R1,000,000
- Priority sectors: Retail, manufacturing, services
- Township location required
SMME Crisis Partnership Fund
Emergency funding for businesses facing temporary cash flow challenges due to unforeseen circumstances.
- Funding: R500,000 - R1,500,000
- Quick turnaround (2-3 weeks)
- Must demonstrate recovery plan
Youth Enterprise Fund
Dedicated funding for business owners aged 18-35. Includes mandatory mentorship programme.
- Owners must be under 35
- Lower interest rates
- Free business mentorship included
Women Enterprise Fund
Priority funding for women-majority owned businesses. Part of GEP's commitment to women economic empowerment.
- 51%+ women ownership required
- Preferential interest rates
- Access to women business networks
GEP Offices
GEP has offices across Gauteng to serve entrepreneurs throughout the province:
| Office | Address | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Head Office (Johannesburg) | 124 Main Street, Marshalltown, Johannesburg | 011 085 2001 |
| Tshwane (Pretoria) | Hatfield Forum, 1067 Arcadia Street, Hatfield | 012 323 8888 |
| Ekurhuleni | Springs Mall, North Rand Road, Springs | 011 812 9500 |
| Sedibeng | 1st Floor, Sedibeng GCIS Building, Vereeniging | 016 422 3400 |
| West Rand | Krugersdorp CBD, West Rand District | 011 660 9800 |
Walk-In Services
All GEP offices offer walk-in consultation services from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. It's recommended to book an appointment first via the GEP website or call centre.
GEP Contact Centre
Phone: 011 085 2001
Email: info@gep.co.za
Website: www.gep.co.za
Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for GEP funding if my business is not in Gauteng?
No. GEP is specifically for businesses physically located and operating in Gauteng Province. Your business premises must be in Gauteng, and you should have proof of address in the province.
What is the interest rate on GEP loans?
GEP interest rates are typically below market rates (prime minus 2-3%). The exact rate depends on the programme, loan amount, and risk assessment. Start-up loans may have slightly higher rates than contract finance.
How long does a GEP application take?
A complete GEP application typically takes 4-8 weeks from submission to disbursement. Contract finance may be faster (2-4 weeks) due to the confirmed contract. Delays usually occur due to incomplete documentation.
Can I apply for multiple GEP programmes simultaneously?
Generally, you can only have one active GEP loan at a time. However, you may apply for additional funding after successfully servicing your current loan for at least 12 months with no defaults.
Does GEP require collateral for loans?
GEP focuses on cash flow lending rather than asset-based lending. Most programmes do not require traditional collateral, though they may require personal suretyship from business owners.
What happens if my GEP application is declined?
If declined, GEP will provide reasons for the decision. Common reasons include incomplete documentation, poor credit history, or unviable business model. You can reapply after addressing the issues, typically after 6 months.
Next Steps
Need Help with Your GEP Application?
Lamase Chartered Accountants specialises in funding application support for Gauteng SMMEs. As a CA(SA)-led practice, they can prepare:
- Business plans with professional financial projections
- Tax clearance and compliance documentation
- B-BBEE certificate or sworn EME/QSE affidavit
- Complete application document packages
Based in Gauteng, serving SMMEs across the province with 2-week turnaround for funding packages.
Did You Know?
Okhantu can automatically match your company profile against GEP eligibility criteria and show you which programmes you qualify for. Check your eligibility →
Need Help With Your GEP Application?
Our network of Gauteng-based funding consultants can help you prepare your GEP application, business plan, and compliance documentation.
- Business plan development
- Financial projections
- Funding application support
- Pitch deck preparation