South African textile cluster launches programme to support SMEs in South Africa

The KwaZulu-Natal Clothing and Textile Cluster (KZNCTC) is implementing the KZNCTC Origin8: From Start-up to Scale-up programme to help SMEs in South Africa understand the needs of their customers. This is reported by Pretoria News, a partner of TV BRICS.

Kyle Ballard, head of accelerators at KZNCTC, emphasised that challenges such as cash flow and regulatory compliance present significant hurdles for SMEs trying to attract large customers. The programme, Ballard said, is designed to give SMEs in the apparel, textiles, footwear and leather sectors more opportunities to demonstrate to customers how they can benefit.

A study tour to a leading clothing manufacturer will take place in June 2024. Selected SMEs will be supported to identify the growth needs and modernisation measures required to expand their business.

By participating in the workshop, SMEs will be able to interact with national customers, align their value proposition with customer expectations and network with industry stakeholders.

These partnerships have generated R21.8 million (US$1,17 million) in procurement and investment, leading to the creation of about 144 new jobs. 

Established in 2005, KZNCTC is a not-for-profit public-private partnership between government and industry aimed at improving the competitiveness of the local apparel, textile, footwear and leather goods industries in the KZN province. 

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