DTIC Submission Windows and Deadlines: When to Apply for Each Programme

The most expensive mistake on a dtic incentive is applying too late. Costs you incur before the right moment usually do not qualify, and missing a claim deadline can cancel an approved grant. Here is when to apply for each programme, and the deadlines that follow.

Manufacturing Support Programme (MSP)

• Applications are accepted during designated application windows. The dtic does not always publish the dates, so check before you plan your spending.

• Apply before you buy or start using the assets. Equipment already in use does not qualify.

• If the dtic has not responded 30 days after a complete application, you may proceed at your own risk.

• Commercial production must start within 180 days of approval, and the first claim is due within six months of production starting.

Black Industrialists Scheme (BIS)

• Applications are open on a rolling basis, but since 1 June 2026 only through the dtic's online portal (OIS).

• Apply before the project starts. If there is no response 60 days after a complete application, you may proceed at your own risk.

• Financial close must be reached within 90 days of approval, and the first claim is due within six months.

Automotive Investment Scheme (AIS)

• Timing is tied to your start of production. Component and tooling makers apply 90 to 120 days before it, and vehicle manufacturers 120 to 180 days before.

• Claims are due within four months of the end of each claim period.

Critical Infrastructure Programme (CIP)

• Open on a rolling basis. Submit a complete application before construction starts.

• Work may begin after the dtic's site visit, at your own risk. The dtic has indicated a decision in around 60 working days once the application is complete.

Agro-Processing Support Scheme (APSS)

• Applications are accepted during designated windows, and only through the OIS portal since 1 June 2026.

• The project must start within 90 days of approval, and the first claim is due within six months.

Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA)

• Apply three to six months before the trade show or mission.

• Claim within two months after the event, and submit a feedback report six months later, or you are excluded from EMIA for six months.

• Up to four successful individual applications a year are allowed, plus two more for events in Africa. No physical events are supported between 15 December and 5 January.

Interesting Facts About Timing

• The "proceed at your own risk" rule means silence from the dtic is not a rejection. After 30 days (MSP and APSS) or 60 days (BIS) you can start, but approval is still not guaranteed.

• In June 2026 the dtic told Parliament that demand for incentives exceeds the available budget, so applying early in a window matters.

• Approval does not end your deadlines. Most programmes cancel a grant if the first claim is not submitted within six months.

A Simple Rule of Thumb

Start the application at least three months before you plan to sign purchase orders, start construction or book a trade show. That leaves time for the business plan, the dtic's questions and any changes to your project.

Planning a project? Contact Hilder Consulting and we will map out the deadlines for your programme.

Based on current dtic programme guidelines, the dtic notices of 1 June 2026 and the dtic briefing to Parliament on 17 June 2026. Approval is at the dtic's discretion and subject to available funds.