While the cost of establishing an Integrated Rapid Transit System is capital intensive, international experience has shown that such systems are capable of operating profitably.

Each individual phase of the system has been designed to be financially sustainable independent of future development, with no significant operational subsidies expected to be required.

The costs of the initial phase required for the 2010 FIFA World Cup will be met by a contribution from national government of R995.02 million, while the City of Cape Town will fund R421.14 million between now and the 2010/2011 financial year.

Further phases are likely to be funded through a combination of national government grants, provincial government support, and City sources. The City is also strongly encouraging private sector partnerships, especially with property owners and private developers.