The International Trade Centre (ITC), in collaboration with Absa Bank Kenya, has launched the Access to Finance Accelerator programme under the SheTrades Commonwealth+ framework, funded by the United Kingdom International Development. 

As the host institution for the SheTrades Kenya Hub, Absa Bank is spearheading this six-week training designed to address a critical gap in financial literacy and access for women entrepreneurs in export businesses. 

The programme focuses on equipping participants with essential skills to create bank-ready business plans and manage risks effectively, thereby enhancing their preparedness for commercial banking, SME financing, and alternative funding options.

The training goes beyond theoretical knowledge, integrating practical exercises such as pitching sessions, networking opportunities, and exposure to successful business cases. 

These activities aim to provide participants with hands-on experience and insights into leveraging trade logistics and e-commerce, two crucial drivers of international business growth. 

Through expert mentorship, customized financial solutions, and strategic partnerships with organizations such as the African Guarantee Fund (AGF) and DHL GoTrade Initiative, the programme ensures women-led businesses are equipped to compete and succeed in global markets.

By addressing the financial barriers faced by women entrepreneurs, this initiative is not only poised to foster individual business growth but also contribute to the broader goal of economic inclusivity. 

Through tailored financial solutions and skill-building opportunities, the Access to Finance Accelerator programme is setting a precedent for how partnerships between banks, trade organizations, and international institutions can drive sustainable development and empower women in the global trade ecosystem.

Speaking during the launch, Absa Bank Kenya Business Banking Director Elizabeth Wasunna said the Access to Finance Accelerator programme is designed to equip entrepreneurs with the necessary tools, knowledge and networks to successfully navigate the complexities of international trade.

“At Absa, we are deeply committed to supporting women in business. We acknowledge the challenges and barries they face in accessing finance and markets necessary to expand their businesses across the globe," said Ms. Wasunna

She added, "As the SheTrades Kenya Hub host institution, we are proud to be at the forefront of initiatives that bridge the gap between women-led businesses and international markets. This initiative complements our four-pronged approach to providing access to markets, information, mentorship and coaching, and sustainable finance."

On her part, Senior Advisor for SheTrades Hubs in Eastern and Southern Africa Phyllis Mwangi noted the importance of the new programme in bridging the access to finance gap for women entrepreneurs in Kenya.

“This is a pivotal moment for women entrepreneurs in Kenya, as we celebrate the launch of the Access to Finance Accelerator initiative designed to bridge the gap between women entrepreneurs and the critical resources they need to grow and thrive. The programme reflects a shared vision in which women have equal opportunities to succeed in business and have access to the tools they need to scale,” said Ms. Mwangi.

Speaking at the event, the British High Commission Agriculture, Food and Drink Attaché for Africa, Rebecca Schneider, noted the need to support women in export to scale up their operations, invest in new markets and compete internationally, while leveraging on the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement.

“Women entrepreneurs are important to the future of Kenya as they are critical to creating employment opportunities, poverty reduction and economic growth, especially in the agricultural sector, where women make up the bulk of the sector in Kenya. It is therefore important to support women to reduce these barriers and export their products to the United Kingdom, the African continent and the rest of the world,” she noted.

The Access to Finance Accelerator programme will target women exporters operating in manufacturing, including textiles and apparel, handicrafts, hospitality, agribusiness, agri-processing and services sectors in the next two years.