What We Offer
DBSA provides a comprehensive suite of development finance products and services to accelerate infrastructure delivery and socio-economic development across Southern Africa.
Our Funding Products
As South Africa's premier development finance institution, DBSA offers tailored financing solutions that address the full spectrum of infrastructure and development needs — from project preparation through to long-term finance and post-implementation support.
With over R347 billion disbursed since 1983, we have deep expertise in structuring transactions that balance commercial sustainability with developmental impact. Our products serve government entities, municipalities, state-owned enterprises, public-private partnerships, and private sector participants in infrastructure delivery.
Whether you're a municipality needing bulk infrastructure finance, a government department seeking project preparation support, or a private developer pursuing climate-friendly infrastructure, DBSA has solutions designed for your needs.
Funding at a Glance
Products & Services
Infrastructure Finance
Long-term debt finance for large-scale infrastructure projects in energy, transport, water, sanitation, health, and education. DBSA provides senior debt, mezzanine finance, and guarantees to enable bankable infrastructure delivery.
- Senior and subordinated debt
- Project finance structuring
- PPP transaction support
Municipal Finance
Financing solutions tailored for South Africa's 278 municipalities, covering bulk water, sanitation, roads, electricity, and community facilities. Includes capacity building and programme management support.
- Municipal infrastructure loans
- Capacity building grants
- Programme management
Climate Finance
Financing South Africa's just energy transition through renewable energy, energy efficiency, climate adaptation, and green infrastructure investments. DBSA serves as an accredited entity for the Green Climate Fund.
- Renewable energy finance
- Green Climate Fund access
- Climate adaptation projects
Project Preparation
Pre-feasibility and feasibility studies, environmental impact assessments, financial modelling, and transaction advisory to take projects from concept to bankability.
- Feasibility studies
- Financial modelling
- Environmental assessments
Advisory Services
Technical assistance, institutional capacity building, knowledge management, and strategic advisory to government entities, municipalities, and development partners.
- Technical assistance
- Institutional capacity building
- Knowledge management
How to Apply for Funding
DBSA follows a rigorous but supportive application process to ensure projects are viable, sustainable, and deliver meaningful development impact.
Eligibility Criteria
DBSA considers funding applications from entities that meet the following general criteria. Specific requirements may vary by product and sector.
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Public sector entities — national and provincial government departments, municipalities, state-owned enterprises, and public entities.
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Private sector participants — entities engaged in infrastructure delivery through PPPs, concessions, or independent project development.
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Development impact — projects must demonstrate clear socio-economic development outcomes aligned with national development priorities.
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Financial sustainability — projects must show a viable financial model with identifiable revenue or repayment sources.
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Geographic focus — projects within South Africa and the SADC region.
Priority Sectors
- Energy & Renewable Energy
- Water & Sanitation
- Transport & Logistics
- Health & Education
- ICT & Digital Infrastructure
- Human Settlements
Ready to Discuss Your Project?
Whether you're in the early stages of project development or ready to apply for funding, our team is here to help. Contact us to discuss how DBSA can support your infrastructure or development initiative.