Event report

SMEs Workshop with NSE

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Enhancing Access to Capital Markets.

Today, we hosted an exclusive SMEs Workshop at TheExchange, in partnership with our Gold Member, Nairobi Securities Exchange PLC (NSE) — diving deep into how SMEs can leverage capital markets for growth, sustainability, and long-term success. 

Opening the session was our newly appointed Executive Director, Domitille Guilloton, who reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to empowering SMEs—who represent a staggering 98% of Kenya’s businesses and employ over 14.9 million people. Their potential is vast—but access to funding remains a key challenge.

Gift Kori, Advisory Manager for SME Growth at NSE, took us through:
The Ibuka Program – a structured pathway that starts with diagnostics and capacity building to help SMEs become investor-ready
A range of capital markets products from equity and debt securities to green bonds and the Unquoted Securities Platform (USP)
A clear process for raising equity or issuing bonds—even for SMEs that are not yet profitable, but have a strong, auditable business plan

Fun fact: You don’t need to be a big, listed company to raise funds via the NSE! SMEs with sound corporate governance, transparency, and strategic ambition can access capital and visibility through the NSE.
 In an engaging discussion, Rina Hicks, Operations Director at Faida Investment Bank, challenged common perceptions and barriers:
Corporate governance is not a formality—it's the foundation for sustainability
Investors look for structure, accountability, and a clear return path
SMEs can start small—a listing by introduction can build visibility and attract future investment
Professionalizing your business (clear roles, accounting discipline, tax compliance) opens doors to long-term partnerships

Key takeaway? At its core, the Exchange is a catalyst for entrepreneurial success, and with the right tools, mindset, and support, SMEs can tap into capital that fuels real growth.

A big thank you to all who joined us for this impactful session! Let’s keep building investor-ready businesses across Kenya.