A total of 18 SME owners have graduated from the NCBA-Strathmore Business School enterprise development programme (EDP) that seeks to boost SMEs' competitiveness and ensure their sustainability.

The 16-week programme is designed to equip SMEs with the tools and skills to identify and seize business opportunities, foster innovation, and unlock their business potential.

Beneficiaries also get critical skills that nurture socially responsible and viable businesses, thereby fostering successful business entrepreneurship in the region

"These graduates exemplify the transformative impact of tailored support, inspiring us to continue championing entrepreneurial success,"~Tirus Mwithiga, NCBA Group Director, Retail Banking.

Dr. Caesar Mwangi, Executive Dean at Strathmore University Business School, underscored the collaborative power of the two institutions' partnership and its impact on the SME community.

"As we celebrate the graduation of the second cohort of the EDP, we witness the tangible impact on the SME community, fostering growth and innovation,"~Dr. Caesar Mwangi, Executive Dean, Strathmore University Business School.

The bank is targeting at least 25 SME businesses for the 3rd cohort of the NCBA – SBS Enterprise Development Programme, with enrolment opening for the next programme on the 21st of May 2024.

To be eligible for the programme, one must:

Alongside the programme, NCBA Bank and Strathmore University also collaborate to develop and implement various capacity-building initiatives to empower SMEs and MSMEs business growth under the Strathmore Entrepreneurship Development and Innovation Centre, including international business trips, networking/thought leadership forums, business training boots camps, conferences, and trade expos.

Be an NCBA customer with an active business account that has been operational for at least 6 months. Have a business that has been operating for 2-3 years, employs more than 3 people, and has an annual turnover of Kes3 million or more. Be the primary decision maker in the business and the majority shareholder.

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