Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has announced the launch of the 2025 Durban Automotive Cluster (DAC) Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Accelerator.

The programme is a public-private partnership between the eThekwini municipality and the regional automotive cluster, and aims to strengthen South Africa’s automotive supply chain through the development of high-potential, black-owned SMEs, positioning them as competitive Tier 2 and Tier 3 contributors to the automotive value chain.

The accelerator promises to provide SMEs with strategic insights into enhancing supplier capability, competitiveness and resilience; real commercial opportunities aligned with industry needs; and a platform to foster partnerships between established suppliers and emerging enterprises.

This year’s accelerator builds on a strong foundation. In 2024, the programme attracted more than 100 applications.

During the programme, selected SMEs will undergo intensive preparation to develop business pitches, culminating in a Dragons’ Den event where they will present their businesses to potential customers and industry leaders.

“At TSAM, we believe that inclusive growth is not just a goal, but a responsibility,” says TSAM president and CEO Andrew Kirby.

“The DAC SME Accelerator is a strategic platform to empower black-owned businesses, strengthen our local supply chain and ensure that transformation is embedded in the DNA of our industry.

“We are, therefore, inviting all stakeholders in the automotive sector to be part of this journey toward a more inclusive, competitive and resilient industry.”

As the accelerator is focused on building bridges between established industry players and emerging entrepreneurs, the participation of existing large Tier 1 suppliers is critical to the success of the programme.

By partnering with TSAM and the DAC, Tier 1 suppliers can drive industry transformation by mentoring and supporting emerging black-owned businesses.

“By empowering black-owned SMEs, we’re not only diversifying the supply chain, but also building a future-ready automotive sector,” notes DAC chief facilitator Meghan King.

“With support from the industry, we believe that, together, we can drive meaningful change and unlock the full potential of South Africa’s automotive supply chain.”

Tier 1 suppliers and SMEs interested in the accelerator programme can email accelerator@bmanalysts.com.