EP20: Upskill, Employ, and Get Paid to Do It - Inside South Africa’s Skills Development System

Most founders know about compliance — but few realise they’re sitting on a goldmine of government-backed rebates, grants, and tax incentives. In this episode, Francois sits down with Ruan from LabourNet to unpack the Skills Development Levy (SDL), how discretionary and mandatory grants work, and why strategic learnerships can transform not just your business, but your impact on youth unemployment in South Africa. From overlooked tax savings to free training for your team, this is the insight most entrepreneurs don’t know they need — but can’t afford to miss.

✅ Three Key Takeaways

1. You’re Already Paying — Now Claim It Back: If your business pays SDL, you’re entitled to get 20% back through a simple report. That’s “money-for-nothing” most founders never claim.
2. Discretionary Grants = Growth Opportunity: Learnerships, bursaries, short courses and apprenticeships can all be funded through SETAs — boosting your team and reducing your tax burden via Section 12H.
3. Partner Right and Avoid the Admin Nightmare: Many founders avoid this system due to paperwork fatigue. LabourNet and trusted providers like African Skills handle the heavy lifting — letting you focus on growth.

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