If you are an owner of an exempted micro enterprise (EME) or a qualifying small micro enterprise (QSE) you have until today to apply for a sponsored 2026 Drone Integration training that Ntsu Aviation Academy is offering.

An Exempted Micro Enterprise (EME) is a business with an annual turnover of R10 million or less, which is automatically exempt from full B-BBEE scorecard measurement.

EMEs receive automatic Level 4 B-BBEE recognition, or better if they are majority Black-owned (Level 2 or 1), verified via a simple sworn affidavit rather than a formal certificate.

A Qualifying Small Enterprise (QSE) meanwhile is a business with an annual turnover between R10 million and R50 million. Under B-BBEE codes, QSEs with at least 51 percent black ownership enjoy enhanced status (Level 1 or 2) and use sworn affidavits instead of full verification, reducing compliance costs.

Ntsu Aviation’s programme is open for only ten select start-ups and the academy will provide them with a comprehensive, end-to-end professional unmanned aviation package that includes:

• Professional Pilot License: Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC).
•  Advanced Courses: Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) and Aviation Security (AVSEC) training.
•  Medicals: Class 3 Aviation Medical Assessment.
• Aviation Hardware: DJI Mavic 4T Thermal Drone with accessories.
• Logistical Support: Daily breakfast and lunch will be provided for the duration of the training period.

Applications must show prove of EME status (legally registered South African enterprise and minimum 51 percent Black Equity Ownership (B-BBEE compliant).

Other submission requirements include: 

•  Motivation Letter: A professional cover letter detailing the intent to scale or introduce drone services.
• Company Documents: Valid Proof of Registration (CIPC).
• B-BBEE Status: Valid B-BBEE Certificate or a Sworn Affidavit.
• Veteran Verification: Valid proof of Military Veteran status (where applicable).

Ntsu Aviation is already working on the selection process and will announce the successful applications last week.

You can apply here.