The Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA) has officially opened Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for the 2026–2027 financial year, creating a major opportunity for organisations involved in skills development, training, and workforce transformation across South Africa.
This EOI window allows eligible stakeholders to position themselves for funding support that drives employment creation, sector growth, and inclusive skills development in the health and welfare space. For training providers, employers, NGOs, and public institutions, this process is a critical entry point into HWSETA-funded programmes.
This guide explains what the HWSETA EOI process is, who should apply, the available funding windows, and how to prepare a strong submission.
What Is an HWSETA Expression of Interest?
An Expression of Interest (EOI) is an initial application stage used by HWSETA to identify organisations that are capable, compliant, and aligned with sector priorities. It allows HWSETA to assess demand and readiness before inviting shortlisted applicants to submit full funding proposals.
Submitting an EOI is mandatory for organisations seeking HWSETA funding during the 2026–2027 cycle. While it does not guarantee funding, it is the only way to be considered for participation.
Why the 2026–2027 HWSETA EOI Is Important
The health and welfare sector faces ongoing challenges, including skills shortages, graduate unemployment, limited workplace exposure, and the need for inclusive participation. The 2026–2027 EOI cycle is designed to address these gaps through targeted funding interventions.
Key objectives of this funding cycle include:
- Expanding access to education and training
- Supporting unemployed youth and graduates
- Strengthening artisan and occupational skills pipelines
- Promoting workplace inclusion for persons with disabilities
- Improving productivity and service delivery in the sector
For organisations committed to social impact and workforce development, this EOI cycle is strategically significant.
Who Should Submit an Expression of Interest?
HWSETA EOIs are open to organisations, not individuals. Eligible stakeholders typically include:
Useful Links:
- Employers operating within the HWSETA sector
- Accredited education and training providers
- Non-profit organisations and NGOs
- Public institutions and entities
- Skills development facilitators and intermediaries
Applicants must be legally registered, compliant, and capable of implementing funded programmes effectively.
Available HWSETA Funding Windows for 2026–2027
HWSETA has identified several funding focus areas for the upcoming financial year. These funding windows address both employed and unemployed beneficiaries.
Bursaries (Employed and Unemployed)
Bursary funding supports learners studying qualifications aligned with the health and welfare sector. This funding typically covers tuition and may include additional study-related costs.
Bursaries are aimed at:
- Addressing scarce and critical skills
- Improving access to education
- Supporting transformation within the sector
Both employed and unemployed learners may be supported, depending on programme criteria.
Internships and Work Integrated Learning (WIL)
Internships and WIL programmes provide structured workplace exposure for students and graduates who need practical experience to complete their qualifications or improve employability.
This funding window is particularly important for:
- Graduates struggling to gain work experience
- Employers seeking supported placement programmes
- Institutions bridging the gap between education and employment
Artisan Development and Skills Programmes
Artisan and occupational skills development remains a national priority. HWSETA funding supports structured training pathways that lead to trade-related and occupational competencies relevant to the sector.
These programmes contribute to:
- Long-term workforce sustainability
- Technical capacity building
- Employment creation in critical roles
Worker Education and Disability Work Experience
This funding stream focuses on inclusive development. Worker education supports upskilling and reskilling of the existing workforce, while disability work experience programmes promote meaningful workplace inclusion for persons with disabilities.
These initiatives align with transformation, equity, and social development goals.
Learnerships and Adult Education and Training (AET)
Learnerships combine theoretical learning with practical workplace experience and lead to nationally recognised qualifications. AET programmes support adults who did not complete formal schooling and need foundational education.
This funding window is especially impactful for:
- Unemployed youth
- Adult learners
- Entry-level workforce development
How to Apply for HWSETA EOIs for 2026–2027
All Expressions of Interest must be submitted through the official HWSETA online platform.
EOI Application Portal:
https://projects.hwseta.org.za/eoi_index
General Application Process
- Access the HWSETA EOI portal
- Register or log in as an organisation
- Select the relevant funding window(s)
- Complete all required organisational details
- Submit the EOI before the closing deadline
Applicants should ensure that all information is accurate, complete, and aligned with HWSETA requirements.
Tips for Submitting a Strong EOI
To improve the likelihood of progressing beyond the EOI stage, organisations should:
- Align proposals with HWSETA strategic priorities
- Demonstrate governance, compliance, and capacity
- Clearly define target beneficiaries and outcomes
- Show realistic implementation timelines
- Highlight measurable impact and sustainability
Incomplete, inaccurate, or non-compliant EOIs are often screened out early in the evaluation process.
What Happens After the EOI Stage?
Once the EOI window closes, HWSETA evaluates submissions based on alignment, capacity, and sector demand. Shortlisted organisations may be invited to submit full funding proposals or supporting documentation.
Only organisations that successfully pass the EOI phase will be considered for final funding approval.
Why Early Preparation Matters
HWSETA EOIs are competitive, and funding is limited. Organisations that prepare early are better positioned to submit compliant, well-structured applications.
Early preparation allows time to:
- Review compliance documents
- Align programmes with sector needs
- Strengthen implementation plans
- Avoid last-minute technical issues
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is an Expression of Interest the same as a funding application?
No. An EOI is a preliminary step. Full funding applications are only invited after successful EOI evaluation.
Can an organisation apply for more than one funding window?
Yes, provided the organisation meets the eligibility requirements for each funding window.
Are individuals allowed to apply?
No. EOIs must be submitted by registered and compliant organisations.
Does submitting an EOI guarantee funding?
No. Funding is subject to evaluation, availability of funds, and strategic alignment.
Where must EOIs be submitted?
All EOIs must be submitted online through the official HWSETA EOI portal.
Conclusion: A Strategic Opportunity for Skills Development in 2026–2027
The opening of HWSETA Expressions of Interest for 2026–2027 presents a valuable opportunity for organisations committed to skills development, employment creation, and sector transformation.
With multiple funding windows available and strong competition expected, organisations that submit high-quality, compliant EOIs position themselves to play a meaningful role in shaping South Africa’s health and welfare workforce.
Early action, clear alignment, and strong implementation planning are key to success in this funding cycle.
