The formation of partnerships related to co-funding, donor funding, public-private partnerships and funding partners form part of the National Skills Fund (NSF) strategic planning and initiation process, as are the partnerships with offices of the premiers, which are focussed on the implementation and monitoring of provincial projects.

Additionally, several key stakeholders and institutions in the post-school education and training (PSET) environment play a critical role in ensuring the successful execution of NSF-funded education and training initiatives. This relates to the public technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges funded by the NSF for occupational programmes and the range of skills development providers contracted by the NSF for workplace-based learning and skills programmes. It also includes the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Department of Higher Education and Training International Scholarships.

Sector education and training authorities (SETAs) also play a linkage role between the realm of learning and workplaces. The National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB), which is a quality assurance body, also contributes in ensuring that learners who are funded for education and training go through accredited learning programmes (where required) and acquire recognised qualifications.