National Bank of Kenya (NBK) has launched “Nia,” a new initiative designed to empower women entrepreneurs across the country. This comprehensive program provides access to financial support, capacity building, and mentorship, aiming to help women-owned and women-led enterprises achieve sustainable growth, create jobs, and contribute significantly to the national economy.
Recognizing the crucial role women play in driving economic progress, NBK’s Women in Business Value Proposition, with “Nia” at its core, represents a strategic commitment to supporting this vital segment of the business community.
Financial Support and Access to Funding:
“Nia” accelerates women entrepreneurs’ access to financing through existing NBK programs:
- NBK Majikonnect Program (KES 5 Billion): Supporting Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives with up to 75% collateral cover from the African Guarantee Fund.
- NBK Elimukonnect Program (KES 2 Billion): Supporting the Education Sector and Schools.
Beyond these dedicated programs, “Nia” offers a range of tailored financial solutions, including business loans, asset financing, and overdraft facilities to address the diverse needs of women-led businesses.
Beyond Finance: Capacity Building and Mentorship:
Recognizing that financial support alone is not enough, “Nia” emphasizes capacity building and mentorship. The program provides technical assistance to help women entrepreneurs:
- Develop robust business plans.
- Improve financial management skills.
- Enhance marketing and branding strategies.
A key component of the mentorship aspect is “You’ve Got Business,” a digital platform connecting aspiring female entrepreneurs with experienced business leaders. This platform offers guidance, advice, and even potential funding opportunities through a show where entrepreneurs pitch their ideas to a panel of Kenyan business leaders. This initiative aligns with NBK’s broader goal of creating job opportunities for youth and equipping them for self-employment.
NBK’s Commitment to Women’s Economic Empowerment:
NBK Managing Director George Odhiambo emphasized the bank’s dedication to supporting women-led businesses: “We are excited to launch Nia, which is part of our commitment to supporting women-led businesses in Kenya. We recognize that women entrepreneurs face unique challenges in accessing finance and growing their businesses. Our goal is to offer them the support they need to overcome these obstacles and achieve their full potential. By providing women entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed, we hope to create a more vibrant and prosperous economy for all.”
“Nia” is open to all women entrepreneurs in Kenya, regardless of their industry or stage of business development. This inclusive approach reflects NBK’s long-standing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and reinforces its dedication to supporting underrepresented groups in the business community. Through “Nia,”