Nedbank launches accelerator to support 20 sustainable fashion SMEs

Nedbank launches accelerator to support 20 sustainable fashion SMEs. Nedbank has launched the Nedbank Fashion Accelerator, a 12-month programme aimed at supporting 20 established small and medium-sized enterprises operating in South Africa’s sustainable fashion and textiles sector.

The initiative forms part of the bank’s Green Economy Social Impact Strategy and is designed to support high-potential businesses in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.

The accelerator will target apparel manufacturers, fashion designers, boutique brands and businesses producing accessories, footwear and leather goods. Implementation partner Fetola will work with participating businesses to strengthen their systems and prepare them for commercial opportunities.

The programme will focus on areas including operational insight, financial literacy and market awareness, with the aim of helping participating businesses develop their commercial capabilities.

“We believe supporting green and sustainable businesses is a key pillar of our purpose-driven approach, which aims to create positive impact,” said Maluta Netshaulu, head of social impact portfolio development at Nedbank.

Netshaulu said entrepreneurship has an important role in South Africa’s transition towards a more inclusive, resilient and sustainable economy.

“Through this programme, we are helping entrepreneurs build commercially ready businesses and contributing to job creation, localisation and the growth of a circular economy that delivers long-term value for people, communities and the environment,” she said.

The accelerator comes as challenges around waste, market access, investment and growth capital continue to affect fashion and textile businesses. According to the information provided by Nedbank, more than eight million tonnes of clothing and textile materials are produced globally, while more than 90 million tonnes are discarded.

Nedbank also highlighted recent activity around sustainable fashion, including AllFashion Sourcing Cape Town extending its platform to Johannesburg and showcasing designers participating in its programmes.

This was followed by an event incorporating the 2026 Green Economy Indaba Awards, where participating designers received recognition.