The Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster (CCTC) has announced the launch of Origin8: From Start-up to Scale-up, a programme designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa’s clothing, textile, footwear, and leather (CTFL) sector.

The programme aims to expose promising SMEs to major national retailer requirements, helping them to bridge the gaps that exist in their business to better align with industry standards and customer expectations.

Courtney Barnes, chief facilitator of the CCTC, emphasised the importance of the cluster's commitment to enhancing the Western Cape’s clothing, textile, footwear and leather industries.

"As retailers look to diversify their sourcing and onshore product, it is critical that the local value chain has the capacity and capabilities to respond. This means we need a strong pipeline of future suppliers.

“We are launching the CCTC Origin8 programme to start this pipeline development and ensure that small businesses have a compelling value proposition to potential customers."

The rollout of the programme includes two key events. On Tuesday January 21, 2025, a complimentary workshop will offer SMEs the opportunity to engage directly with major national retailers, gaining valuable insights into the critical questions that customers ask when assessing new suppliers, and the common challenges that need to be overcome to unlock procurement opportunities.

The SME participants will also be equipped with practical tools to better align their business offering with customer expectations and more effectively showcase their potential.

This will be followed by a half-day guided factory tour on Wednesday January 22, 2025, where SMEs will have the chance to observe world-class manufacturing and best practices in action.

James Vos, the City’s mayoral committee member for economic growth, said they were a proud partner of the Origin8 programme.

“This partnership is designed to empower start-ups and scale-ups in the clothing, textile, footwear, and leather sectors with the insights to meet big customers’ requirements. Through this collaboration, we are committed to helping these businesses on their journey to showcase their potential and scaling their business.

Who should apply?

CCTC Origin8 is open to all SMEs in the CTFL sector - from garment and footwear manufacturers to screening, printing and embroidery services - in Cape Town and surrounds, with over two years of trading experience, employing 10 or more people, and with an annual turnover between R2 million and R50 million.

Preference will be given to businesses that are 51% or more black-owned, with a focus on apparel manufacturing, leather, footwear, and related offerings.

How to apply?

Interested SMEs who qualify are encouraged to apply for this free programme before Monday December 2. Spaces are limited, so early application is recommended.

For more information, contact cctc@bmanalysts.com

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Textile cluster launches support programme for SMEs