Green Tourism Incentive Programme

Funding for Sustainable Tourism

The Green Tourism Incentive Programme (GTIP), launched by the Department of Tourism in 2017, supports privately-owned tourism businesses in adopting sustainable energy and water management solutions. With funding of up to R1 million, the programme helps businesses: 

  • Reduce operational costs 
  • Improve resource efficiency 
  • Contribute to responsible tourism 

Funding  & Eligibility

GTIP covers 50% to 90% of approved energy and water efficiency projects, including: 

  • Solar Energy Systems  
  • Energy & Water Efficient Appliances  
  • Water Efficiency Solutions  
  • Resource Management Policies  
  • Monitoring Equipment  


Boreholes and desalination plants are not covered under the programme. 

How the Programme Works

GTIP follows a structured two-phase approach:

Phase 1: Resource Efficiency Audit 

GTIP funds 100% of the cost for an energy and water efficiency audit, conducted by an approved assessor. To qualify, applicants must: 
  • Be a privately-owned tourism business (e.g., accommodation, attractions, or facilities). 
  • Be classified as an Exempt Micro Enterprise (annual revenue ≤ R5 million) or a Qualifying Small Enterprise (annual revenue R5–R45 million). 
  • Provide 12 months of historical energy/water consumption data. 
  • Obtain quotes from at least three approved service providers. 

Phase 2: Funding Application 

Once the audit is complete, eligible applicants can apply for grant funding. Selection is based on: 

  • Projected energy and water savings. 
  • Compliance with the Tourism B-BBEE Scorecard (higher scores for Level 1 compliance). 
  • Business size (lower turnover businesses receive higher priority). 

How to Apply

Applicants must submit:

Completed application form

Business registration documents & tax compliance PIN

Tourism B-BBEE certificate or affidavit

Latest financial statements

Energy/water efficiency audit report

Quotations from approved service providers 

Proof of business premises (lease or ownership documents)

Important Notes 

The applicant must use their own contribution before grant disbursement. Only approved service providers may be used for implementation. Minimum energy and water saving targets must be met. 

For full details and application forms, visit the IDC website: www.idc.co.za/green-tourism-incentive-programme or email gtipapplications@idc.co.za.