NAIROBI, Kenya- Fifteen women-led enterprises in Kenya’s export value chains are set to break new ground in international markets, thanks to a new partnership between SBM Bank and the Centre for the Promotion of Imports (CBI).
Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this collaboration will provide affordable financing to help women entrepreneurs expand their businesses globally.
Through this initiative, women-led businesses will gain access to the capital needed to scale their operations and enter international markets.
SBM Bank CEO Bhartesh Shah expressed excitement about the partnership’s potential impact, saying, “We are opening new doors for women entrepreneurs to participate in global trade. We are excited about the positive impact this initiative will create in the coming years.”
This program is a key part of CBI’s Women’s Economic Empowerment project in Kenya, which is valued at Sh282 million over five years.
According to CBI Programme Coordinator Janneke Vereijken, women entrepreneurs face significant hurdles when it comes to accessing international markets. “This collaboration will empower women to unlock their full potential in global trade,” she said.
More than just funding, the partnership will provide women entrepreneurs with the training and coaching they need to navigate the complexities of global trade.
This includes improving financial management skills, enhancing export readiness, and understanding the requirements for accessing finance. CBI will also leverage its vast market intelligence and international networks to create new opportunities for Kenyan businesses.
The initiative will ensure these businesses have the necessary tools to succeed in global markets, from financial solutions to market entry strategies.
As the world becomes more interconnected, initiatives like this provide critical support for marginalized groups, helping women-led businesses thrive in international trade.
With the backing of SBM Bank and CBI, these Kenyan enterprises are poised to make significant strides on the global stage.
