Nairobi County has launched a Sh1 billion support program to empower women entrepreneurs, strengthen small businesses, and boost inclusive economic growth. The initiative was unveiled under the Annual Development Plan 2025/2026, reinforcing the county’s commitment to gender equity and entrepreneurship.
The program provides women-led enterprises with access to affordable financing, training, mentorship, and market linkages. Nairobi County partnered with commercial banks, microfinance institutions, and international development agencies to ensure that women entrepreneurs can access credit without prohibitive collateral requirements. The initiative also integrates digital platforms for e-commerce, export readiness programs, and green business incentives, enabling women to scale their ventures regionally and globally.
Women entrepreneurs welcomed the program, noting that it helps overcome challenges such as limited access to capital, high operational costs, and restricted market opportunities. Analysts argue that the Sh1 billion support program is transformative, embedding inclusivity into Nairobi’s economic framework while complementing earlier initiatives such as the Sh3 Billion Credit Guarantee Program (April 8, 2025) and the Creative Economy Hub (October 14, 2025). Together, these efforts create a comprehensive ecosystem for SME growth and innovation.
Looking ahead, Nairobi County plans to expand the program by integrating AI-powered financing tools, blockchain-based certification for women-owned businesses, and green supply chain practices. Officials believe that by embedding advanced technologies into entrepreneurship support, Nairobi can accelerate job creation, attract foreign investment, and reinforce its role as East Africa’s hub for inclusive innovation.
women Entrepreneurs in Nairobi Receive Sh1 Billion Support Program
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