New Partnership Launched to Support Kenyan Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises

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A new partnership aimed at bolstering Kenyan Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) has been announced, uniting Strathmore University Business School (SBS) and the International Trade Centre (ITC). This initiative seeks to create digital trade opportunities for Kenyan businesses.
The collaboration is designed to equip MSMEs with essential skills, tools, and knowledge to leverage e-commerce, thereby expanding their market reach and opportunities. With funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), SBS is implementing the USAID Strategic Partnership Program, focusing on empowering MSMEs through its Kenya Small Business Development Centers (Kenya SBDC) project.
“This strategic alliance empowers MSMEs in Kenya and highlights our shared commitment to fostering economic growth, job creation, and regional market expansion,” the partnership statement noted.
Drawing on best practices from the U.S. SBDC model, this initiative will provide advisory services, training, and access to markets and finance for MSMEs in six counties: Mombasa, Nakuru, Kiambu, Kisumu, Makueni, and Isiolo.
Under ITC’s Digital Moonshot and the European Union (EU) – East African Community (EAC) Market Access Upgrade Programme (MARKUP II), ITC is facilitating micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises to sell online through personalized learning programs, technical assistance, digital tools, and innovative solutions, in collaboration with local and international partners.
Building on the success of the SBDC project, Strathmore University Business School has formalized its collaboration with ITC through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish SBDC Digital Trade Hubs across six counties.
“The primary objective of these hubs is to empower MSMEs with the skills and knowledge required to access new markets through e-commerce,” the joint statement added.
The SBDC Digital Trade Hubs will serve as comprehensive resources for MSMEs, offering a combination of online and offline support. Utilizing ITC’s ecomConnect Learning Programme, the hubs will provide access to a wide array of e-commerce training materials and resources.
Additionally, MSMEs will benefit from in-person coaching and training sessions, enhancing their proficiency in utilizing e-commerce sales channels.
SBS and ITC are also strategically planning to collaborate with other key e-commerce stakeholders in Kenya. These partnerships aim to extend further capacity building and support to MSMEs, fostering an environment conducive to sustainable business growth through e-commerce.
The partnership between SBS and ITC represents a significant step toward inclusive and sustainable economic development in Kenya, poised to make a meaningful impact on the lives of MSMEs and communities nationwide.