The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) has entered into a landmark partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to strengthen women-led small and medium enterprises (WSMEs) across Kenya. The collaboration was officially launched at the unveiling of the SHE GROWS Programme in Nairobi.
The agreement, signed by Dr. Erick Rutto, President of KNCCI, and Marieme Niang, Africa Regional Gender Lead at IFC, represents a key step in promoting inclusive economic development. It aims to break down barriers that restrict women entrepreneurs from fully participating in Kenya’s economy.
Implemented under IFC’s Gender and Economic Inclusion Department (GEID), the SHE GROWS Programme is designed to enhance access to finance for women-owned businesses with an annual turnover of at least USD 1 million. It will also focus on improving governance structures, strengthening operational capacity, and boosting investment readiness.
Through this initiative, IFC will provide technical advisory support, mentorship, and capacity building to selected women-led SMEs, while KNCCI will mobilize participants, coordinate stakeholder engagement, and promote the programme through its nationwide business network.
The collaboration seeks to:
- Equip women-led enterprises with essential tools and training to expand their operations.
- Facilitate access to investment, with a target of mobilizing over USD 50 million in capital.
- Support at least 50 women-led SMEs through customized business advisory services.
- Create or sustain over 5,000 jobs, with particular emphasis on opportunities for women and youth.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Dr. Erick Rutto said, “This partnership reflects KNCCI’s commitment to ensuring that women are not just participants but drivers of Kenya’s economic transformation. By combining IFC’s technical expertise with KNCCI’s business networks, we are creating a pathway for sustainable growth and empowerment.”
Echoing this sentiment, Marieme Niang added, “IFC is proud to collaborate with KNCCI to advance gender-inclusive growth in Kenya. The SHE GROWS initiative will strengthen women entrepreneurs’ ability to access finance, attract investment, and integrate into regional and global value chains.”
Beyond Kenya, IFC also plans to pilot a similar programme in Mozambique, extending its impact across the region.
The partnership highlights KNCCI and IFC’s shared commitment to advancing women’s economic empowerment, driving job creation, and supporting Kenya’s long-term economic resilience through inclusive entrepreneurship.
