The Aerospace Industry Support Initiative (AISI), an initiative of South Africa’s Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), is inviting expressions of interest (EoI) from aerospace and defence manufacturers seeking to enhance their technological capabilities and competitiveness.
Managed by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the AISI is calling on both SMMEs and companies engaged in advanced manufacturing within the aerospace and defence sectors to participate in its Aerospace and Defence Technology-Based Industry and Supplier Development Programme. Applications are open from 25 April 2025 to 20 March 2026, with evaluations conducted monthly.
The programme provides qualifying companies with financial and technical support across three key areas:
- Technology Enhancement: Up to R1.5 million in support for product development, prototyping, and industrialisation. Projects must begin at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 or higher.
- Standards and Accreditation (SMMEs only): Assistance in achieving certifications such as ISO9001 and AS/EN9100 to ensure consistent quality and global competitiveness.
- Process Development and Optimisation (SMMEs only): Support for improving production efficiency through lean manufacturing, facility layout design, and quality management systems.
Applicants must be South African-registered and actively involved in the aerospace, defence, or advanced manufacturing sectors. Preference will be given to SMMEs aligned with the dtic’s goals of industrialisation, job creation, and transformation.
Eligible thematic areas include aerostructures, space, avionics, propulsion, surveillance and sensor systems, and land systems. A rigorous evaluation process based on compliance, sector relevance, and black ownership will determine successful applicants.
See the attached for more information:
