Department of Small Business Development Internship 2026: Complete Guide to Apply

Are you a recent graduate looking to gain professional experience and kick‑start your career in business development, public administration, finance, research, or strategic planning? The Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) Internship Programme 2026 in South Africa offers an excellent opportunity for unemployed graduates to gain structured workplace experience, build skills, and improve employability in the public sector.

About the Department of Small Business Development

The Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) is a national government department in South Africa dedicated to supporting small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), promoting entrepreneurship, and enabling economic growth. The internship programme provides hands‑on experience in areas such as policy research, organisational development, finance, and business support operations.

Internship Programme Overview

• Programme Name: Department of Small Business Development Internship Programme 2026

• Type: Graduate Internship (Government Sector)

• Location: Pretoria Head Office, Gauteng, South Africa

• Duration: 24 months (two‑year structured internship)

• Stipend: R127,725 per year (approximately; all‑inclusive)

• Eligibility:

  • South African citizen aged 18‑35 years

  • Unemployed at time of application

  • Has not previously participated in a government internship programme

  • Must hold a National Diploma (NQF Level 6) or Bachelor’s Degree (NQF Level 7) recognized by SAQA

• Closing Date: Varies by intake (often early in the year; check official announcement)

Available Internship Fields and Roles

The DSBD Graduate Internship Programme typically includes a variety of internship placements, such as:

• Organisational Development & Human Resources Management

• Office of the Deputy Director‑General: Sector Policy & Research

• International Relations (including roles targeted for persons with disabilities)

• Supply Chain Management & Logistics

• Financial Administration & Accounting

• Management Accounting

• Regional Local Economic Development

• Research & Analysis – Director‑General’s Office

• Administrator – Office of the Director‑General

• SMME Policy & Oversight

• Secondary Sector Support

• Other strategic and operational roles aligned with departmental needs

Each internship position has a specific reference number and qualification requirement based on the field of study.

Key Responsibilities

Interns in the DSBD programme typically:

• Support policy research and analysis

• Assist with administrative, financial, and operational duties

• Contribute to strategic planning and reporting

• Support programs that empower small business development and SMME growth

• Participate in project teams, stakeholder engagements, and departmental meetings

• Develop professional and workplace skills in a government environment

How to Apply

1. Prepare Your Documents:

   • Fully completed Z83 application form (government application form)

   • Updated CV highlighting qualifications, skills, and any experience

   • Certified copies of your ID and academic qualifications (SAQA evaluation if foreign)

   • Academic transcripts if available

2. Select the Right Reference:

   • Identify the role you want to apply for (e.g., FINADMIN for financial administration) and include the reference number in your application subject line.

3. Submit Your Application:

   • Typically submitted by email to the DSBD recruitment email as specified in the official advertisement.

   • Ensure all required documents are included and correctly named.

4. Monitor Communication:

   • Shortlisted candidates are usually contacted via email or phone for interviews and suitability assessments.

Application Tip: Ensure your application is accurate and complete — applications with missing documentation or incorrect reference numbers are often disqualified.

Benefits of the Internship

• Structured professional experience in government and business development

• Stipend financial support during the internship period

• Mentorship and learning opportunities from experienced professionals

• Exposure to policy, finance, research, and public administration

• Strong foundation for a career in government, business, finance, or project management

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Who is eligible to apply for the DSBD Internship Programme?
Unemployed South African graduates aged 18‑35 with a National Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in relevant fields, and no prior government internship experience.

Q2: How long is the internship?
The programme runs for 24 months (two years).

Q3: Is the internship paid?
Yes — interns receive a market‑related stipend of approximately R127,725 per year.

Q4: Do I need work experience to apply?
No prior work experience is required, but relevant academic projects or volunteer experience can strengthen your application.

Q5: Where are interns placed?
Most placements are at the DSBD Head Office in Pretoria, though there may be rotational or functional assignments within the department.

Q6: What documents are needed?
Complete Z83 form, CV, certified ID, academic qualifications, and transcripts are usually required.