Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) and the Durban Automotive Cluster (DAC) have launched the 2025 SME Accelerator Programme, a forward-thinking partnership between the private sector and the eThekwini Municipality designed to strengthen South Africa’s automotive supply chain from the ground up.
At its heart, the initiative aims to empower high-potential, black-owned Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), positioning them as competitive Tier 2 and Tier 3 suppliers in one of the country’s most critical industries. It’s a direct contribution to the South African Automotive Masterplan (SAAM) 2035, which seeks to drive localisation, transformation, and skills development across the sector.
“Inclusive growth is not just a goal but a responsibility,” says Andrew Kirby, President and CEO of Toyota South Africa Motors. “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.”
The programme isn’t only about creating opportunities, but also about building bridges. By inviting Tier 1 suppliers to mentor and support emerging enterprises, the Accelerator fosters collaboration that aligns transformation goals with real-world commercial impact. Participating suppliers can also strengthen their B-BBEE and localisation strategies while shaping a more inclusive automotive future.
For Meghan King, Chief Facilitator of the Durban Automotive Cluster, the initiative signals a deeper shift:
“This 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.”
The Accelerator’s impact is already visible. In 2024, the programme drew over 100 applications, reflecting its growing reputation as a launchpad for emerging businesses. This year’s edition continues to offer participants targeted training, commercial exposure, and a “Dragons’ Den”-style showcase where SMEs will pitch directly to major industry players.
Toyota’s partnership with DAC reinforces an important message that industrial growth and inclusion are not opposing forces, but complementary ones. As South Africa’s automotive industry navigates global competition and local transformation targets, initiatives like this represent a model for shared progress.
SMEs and Tier 1 suppliers interested in joining the 2025 Accelerator can email accelerator@bmanalysts.com for more information.
