SBM Bank Kenya in partnership with Tactive Consulting have rolled out training program for 500 women entrepreneurs in the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) space, to enable them run profitable enterprises.
The program consists of immersive training and coaching sessions which will equip the women entrepreneurs with financial literacy, business acumen and management skills that will enable them increase efficiency, manage cash flow and quality which will drive profitability in their businesses.
SBM Bank Kenya Board Chairperson, Shakilla Jhungeer, says financial empowerment is the cornerstone for enabling women to thrive in an equitable business landscape.
“Financial literacy and business management skills are critical enablers for women-led enterprises to thrive. By imparting this knowledge, we are empowering a key segment of our society to unlock their full economic potential,” Shakilla said.
She says in creating an all-encompassing ecosystem that nurtures female entrepreneurship, the bank is acting in alignment with its overarching sustainability commitments.
“We are glad to partner with organizations such as Tactive Consulting, which shares in our vision of empowering entrepreneurs, particularly women and youth. As a signatory to the UN Women Empowerment Principles, we at SBM are steadfast in our pursuit of promoting gender equality and creating opportunities that empower women to thrive in business, ultimately contributing to the socio-economic fabric of our nations,” Shakila said.
The pilot training conducted yesterday [Tuesday] marks the first engagement in a series of sessions scheduled this year.
SBM Bank has over the years, partnered with knowledge and market access partners to impact over 15,000 women through capacity building programs.
“Our plan is to initially onboard 20 women-owned SMEs over the course of this training, providing them with actionable knowledge and tools to sustainably grow their ventures. Beyond the training, we will offer continued mentorship and coaching to ensure these female entrepreneurs can realize their full potential and access new markets, leveraging SBM’s networks and value proposition,” said Kaye Matereke, Senior partner, Tactive Consulting.