Driving Impact

Bringing changemakers, mentors, and funders together.

Proudly a majority women of colour-owned company, driving inclusive economic growth and innovation. Our leadership reflects the strength, resilience, and excellence of diverse entrepreneurs, making us a catalyst for meaningful change in Africa and beyond.

Our Community-First Philosophy

it’s our foundation

Understanding the Cause First

We start by listening—deeply understanding the heart of every project, whether it’s a startup, a social enterprise, or a community initiative. We don’t just ask “What’s your goal?”—we ask “Who are you helping, and how can we amplify that impact?”

Co-Creating Sustainable Solutions

We work hand-in-hand with entrepreneurs, community leaders, and changemakers to design strategies that benefit both the business and the community it serves. Our approach ensures that ventures aren’t just profitable—they’re purposeful.

Empowering Local Voices

We prioritise projects that uplift local economies, create jobs, and strengthen community ties. From grassroots initiatives to high-growth startups, we believe in fostering inclusive economic development.

Fueling visions that uplift communities.

Empowering Ideas

Durban Companies Market (DCM) was founded with a simple yet profound belief: strong communities build strong economies. In a world where funding often prioritises profits over people, DCM emerged as a catalyst for change—bridging the gap between innovative ideas, community needs, and sustainable economic growth.

We recognised the struggles that entrepreneurs and community leaders face when trying to access meaningful funding and mentorship. That’s why DCM was designed as more than just a marketplace for capital—it’s a community-driven platform that prioritizes people, purpose, and long-term impact.

Our Impact in Action

The Method

The Durban Exchange

A funding platform open to all causes, run three times a year, that connects changemakers to funding and mentorship while promoting community-backed success stories.

Venture Lab Mentorship

A hands-on support system that helps business-related projects not only survive but thrive. Our focus on structured growth ensures ventures make a real, lasting impact on their communities.

The DCM 7% Equity Model

Inspired by global accelerators but adapted for Africa’s unique challenges, our equity model fosters partnerships that go beyond funding—offering operational support to ensure long-term success.

Purpose Over Profits

We believe funding should empower—not exploit.

Transparency & Accountability

Integrity is at the core of our relationships.

Collaboration

Great things happen when communities work together.

Sustainability

Every project should create lasting, positive change.

Empowerment

We uplift local voices to solve local challenges.