Durban – In a bold move to strengthen South Africa’s automotive supply chain and accelerate transformation, Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has joined forces with the eThekwini Municipality and the Durban Automotive Cluster (DAC) to launch the 2025 DAC SME Accelerator programme. This strategic Public-Private Partnership is designed to empower black-owned Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), creating new pathways for growth and embedding inclusivity at the heart of the country’s automotive industry.
The SME Accelerator is far more than a development programme—it is a catalyst for structural change, aimed at equipping high-potential SMEs with the tools, knowledge, and networks to become competitive Tier 2 and Tier 3 suppliers. By doing so, the initiative aligns seamlessly with the objectives of the South African Automotive Masterplan (SAAM) 2035, prioritising localisation, transformation, and skills development.
Empowering Emerging Suppliers
“At Toyota South Africa Motors, we believe that inclusive growth is not just a goal but a responsibility,” said Andrew Kirby, President and CEO of TSAM. “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 inviting all stakeholders in the automotive sector to be part of this journey toward a more inclusive, competitive and resilient industry.”
The Accelerator seeks to bridge the gap between established industry leaders and emerging entrepreneurs. Tier 1 Suppliers play a pivotal role, providing mentorship, technical guidance, and market insights to the next generation of suppliers. By actively engaging in the programme, Tier 1 companies can simultaneously advance their localisation and supplier development objectives while enhancing their Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) credentials.
Meghan King, Chief Facilitator at the Durban Automotive Cluster, emphasised the transformative potential of the programme: “The DAC SME Accelerator is more than a programme—it’s a catalyst for inclusive growth and industrial resilience. By empowering black-owned SMEs, we’re not only diversifying the supply chain but also building a future-ready automotive sector. With support from industry partners like TSAM, we can unlock the full potential of South Africa’s automotive supply chain and drive meaningful change.”
A Proven Track Record
The Accelerator builds on an increasingly impressive legacy. In 2024, the programme attracted over 100 applications, demonstrating its growing influence and reputation within the sector. Over the years, it has successfully nurtured SMEs, enabling them to scale operations, secure contracts, and forge long-term partnerships with established automotive players. The programme’s impact extends beyond individual businesses, fostering a more inclusive, resilient, and competitive automotive ecosystem across the country.
Participants in the 2025 DAC SME Accelerator will benefit from a comprehensive suite of resources and support. SMEs will gain strategic insights to enhance their competitiveness, resilience, and operational capability, all while aligning their offerings with real market needs. The programme culminates in a high-profile “Dragons’ Den” style event, where selected businesses present their proposals to industry leaders and potential customers—providing a launchpad for genuine commercial opportunities.
Kirby concluded: “We are proud to support a programme that not only develops supplier capability but also creates meaningful opportunities for long-term partnerships and sector-wide resilience. This is about building an automotive sector that works for everyone, where inclusivity and competitiveness go hand in hand.”
Getting Involved
Tier 1 Suppliers and SMEs interested in participating in the 2025 DAC SME Accelerator are encouraged to reach out via email at [email protected]. By joining this initiative, stakeholders can actively contribute to the transformation, growth, and future-readiness of South Africa’s automotive sector.
