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Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of any economy, contributing significantly to employment creation and economic growth.
However, these businesses often face numerous challenges, including limited access to financing, lack of business skills, and inadequate networks to help them grow.
To address these challenges, the National Bank of Kenya (NBK), in partnership with The Leadership Group and Ashitiva LLP, has launched the National Business Forum.
The National Business Forum is a member-based initiative aimed at supporting business leaders to sustainably grow their organizations through capacity building, access to a network of experienced business leaders, and access to financial resources required to transform their respective businesses.
Through this strategic partnership, NBK will give access to financing and financial advisory services, Ashitiva LLP will extend access to business and legal advisory services while The Leadership Group will provide training and development for the SMEs so as to address the hurdles that inhibit businesses from operating optimally and transitioning to higher levels sustainably.
Speaking during the launch, NBK Managing Director George Odhiambo emphasized the bank’s unwavering commitment to supporting SMEs and nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit in Kenya.
He stated that the National Business Forum represents a significant milestone in their mission to empower Kenyan entrepreneurs, enabling them to realize their full potential.
The Forum has embraced a Leadership and Business Acumen Development Model that aims to equip SMEs with essential resources to become resilient.
These include mentorship, capacity building, leadership and growth for entrepreneurs, all designed to foster sustainable growth and enable them to scale their businesses tenfold within the next five years.
The National Business Forum is set to kickstart its mission by collaborating with 100 businesses across various sectors, including Renewable Energy, Water, Education, Agribusiness, Agriculture, Healthcare, Technology, and Women in Business.
In conclusion, the launch of the National Business Forum is a significant step towards empowering SMEs in Kenya and driving economic growth and development.
By providing access to financing, business and legal advisory services, and training and development, NBK, The Leadership Group, and Ashitiva LLP are creating an enabling environment for SMEs to thrive.
