SME Accelerator Program Launched by KZN Clothing and Textile Cluster

Durban – The global supply chains are still in the process of recovering from the disruptions brought about by the pandemic, leaving industries across the globe facing delays, shortages, and evolving production dynamics.

Nonetheless, for South Africa’s Clothing, Textile, Footwear and Leather sector (CTFL), these challenges have revealed a significant opportunity.

In light of the uncertainties present in international supply chains, local production and onshoring have transformed into a strategy aimed at fostering resilience and sustainability rather than being mere alternatives.

Choosing local is now more than just a preference; it’s a vital necessity.

A 2024 industry analysis indicates that these issues have prompted major South African retailers to focus heavily on domestic sourcing, leading to increased investment in local manufacturing capabilities.

As global instability continues to impact shipping costs and timelines, localisation is emerging as more than just a noble idea – it has become a tangible business strategy with significant repercussions.

Indeed, according to Kyle Ballard, Head of SME Development for the KwaZulu-Natal Clothing & Textile Cluster (KZNCTC), localisation in South Africa’s CTFL sector has experienced an impressive 58% growth since 2019 – a clear, quantifiable movement that gathers pace.

“It’s rare to hear about Woolworths, Mr Price, TFG, and Pepkor Speciality being mentioned together,” noted Ballard.

“However, in the pursuit of transforming South Africa’s CTFL economy, they are united by a common goal.”

These five prominent retailers – Woolworths, Mr Price Group (Apparel and Sport), TFG, and Pepkor Speciality – are all signatories of the Retail-Clothing, Textile, Footwear and Leather (R-CTFL) Master Plan, a national initiative aimed at rejuvenating the sector, generating jobs, and establishing stronger, more inclusive value chains.

And that’s where the KZNCTC Accelerator plays a crucial role.

Now in its third edition, the SME Accelerator – backed by the eThekwini Municipality’s Economic Development Programmes Unit – serves as a pragmatic and proven platform that aids small manufacturers in gaining market access, improving standards, and securing capital investment to scale their businesses.

Through the Accelerator, participating SMEs are directly connected with these leading retail partners who are proactively searching for strategic suppliers to enhance their localised supply chains.

Businesses receive expert assistance to enhance their capabilities, fulfill customer expectations, and uncover significant commercial prospects.

Nelisiwe Magubane, Programme Manager for CTFL at the eThekwini Municipality, stated: “The SME Accelerator exemplifies how public-private partnerships can foster impactful results on the ground.”

“When government collaborates with industry, we create genuine opportunities for small businesses to engage meaningfully in the economy.”

What’s in Demand – and Who Should Apply

Applications for the 2025 KZNCTC Accelerator are now open, with this year’s participating retailers seeking suppliers with particular capabilities in:

• Outerwear for ladies and men

• Babywear

• Legwear and hosiery

• Leather goods and accessories

• Grass bag and accessory suppliers

• Technical sports footwear

• Denim

We encourage all small businesses within the CTFL sector to apply if you meet the following criteria:

• You are a South African-owned manufacturing entity

• 51% or more Black-owned

• With an annual turnover of R50 million or less

• Are CIPC registered, tax compliant, and have been operating for at least 2 years

• Prepared to offer products or services to large retail customers and expand your business

Bear in mind, this venture is about more than just visibility.

It’s about nurturing sustainable partnerships that could transform your business outlook and contribute to the evolution of local clothing, textile, footwear, and leather manufacturing in South Africa.

Applications close on 14 April 2025, so if you’re eager to expand your business, apply now: https://zfrmz.com/dl6SbUygx8sUWPNgGd9P