TSAM strengthens partnership with SME Accelerator

The programme is a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening South Africa’s automotive supply chain through the development of high-potential, black-owned Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

This pioneering programme is designed to unlock new commercial opportunities for emerging suppliers, positioning them as competitive Tier 2 and Tier 3 contributors to the automotive value chain. The Accelerator directly supports the objectives of the South African Automotive Masterplan (SAAM) 2035, with a strong focus on localisation, transformation and skills development.

Commenting on the DAC SME Accelerator programme, Andrew Kirby, President and CEO of Toyota South Africa Motors says: “At Toyota South Africa Motors, we believe that inclusive growth is not just a goal but a responsibility. 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 Accelerator is about building bridges between established industry players and emerging entrepreneurs. To this effect, the participation of Tier 1 Suppliers is critical to the success of the programme.

By partnering with TSAM and the DAC, Tier 1 Suppliers will drive industry transformation by mentoring and supporting emerging black-owned businesses. Additionally, participating in the programme will enable Tier 1 Suppliers to align their localisation and supplier development goals with their Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) strategy.

“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. We are glad to have Toyota as a partner to drive transformation and shape the future of the automotive sector.

“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,” says Meghan King, Chief Facilitator, Durban Automotive Cluster.

The DAC SME Accelerator builds on a strong foundation. In 2024, the programme attracted over 100 applications, reflecting its growing reputation and impact. Over the years, the Accelerator has catalysed significant growth for both SMEs and large corporations, fostering a more inclusive and robust automotive ecosystem.

The Accelerator provides strategic insights into enhancing supplier capability, competitiveness and resilience; real commercial opportunities aligned with industry needs; and a platform to foster meaningful partnerships between established suppliers and emerging enterprises. During the programme, selected SMEs will undergo intensive preparation to develop compelling business pitches, culminating in a high impact “Dragons’ Den” event where they will present to potential customers and industry leaders.

“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,” Andrew concludes.