Since its launch five years ago, the Durban Chemicals Cluster (DCC) Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) Accelerator has recorded tangible growth for the local chemicals industry, driving over R41 million in new sales and generating an estimated 359 new jobs.

The Durban Chemicals Cluster (DCC) Business Accelerator held its annual "Dragons’ Den" event at The Pearls in Umhlanga Rocks on Tuesday, 28 November 2023. Emulating the renowned Dragons' Den format, 11 emerging Black-owned enterprises passionately presented their ventures to a panel of influential 'Dragons'.

In the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, small business owners face a multitude of challenges and opportunities. To thrive in this environment, guidance and support from experienced mentors have become invaluable.

Globally, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) wrestle with the daunting task of getting their products and services in front of the decision-makers in large companies.  Even when they succeed, a series of roadblocks can derail potential opportunities causing them to miss out on transformative contracts.

In the fast-changing world of entrepreneurship, small businesses often hit roadblocks that slow down their growth and success. From tight budgets and limited expertise to encountering barriers in accessing lucrative market opportunities; the struggle for small business owners is real.

The Durban Chemicals Cluster (DCC) Accelerator is now in its sixth year and is proud to announce the launch of its next Business Accelerator. Applications from high-potential, Black-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the local chemicals sector are all welcome and will be accepted until 30 September 2023.