County Launches Nairobi SME Support Centers

Nairobi County has taken a bold step to strengthen its business ecosystem with the launch of new SME support centers across the city. The initiative, unveiled on October 7, 2025, at the Jericho Incubation Hub in Makadara Sub-County, is designed to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by offering training, mentorship, and access to digital tools. County officials emphasized that the centers will serve as one-stop hubs for entrepreneurs, helping them navigate challenges such as limited funding, lack of business skills, and restricted market access.
The Jericho Incubation Hub, inaugurated by the County’s Innovation and Digital Economy Sector, is the flagship facility under this program. It provides digital skills training, incubation services, and business development support tailored to startups and grassroots enterprises. County Executive Committee Member Mike Gumo highlighted that the hub is more than just an ICT center—it is a platform for young innovators to transform ideas into sustainable businesses. Earlier in the year, on March 11, 2025, SBM Bank Kenya also launched three SME business hubs in Nairobi’s CBD, Kilimani, and Karen, offering financial advisory services and business clinics, complementing the county’s efforts.
The initiative has been welcomed by entrepreneurs and business leaders, who see it as a timely intervention to address the challenges faced by SMEs in Nairobi. Many praised the county for prioritizing youth empowerment and digital inclusion, noting that the hubs will reduce barriers to entry for startups and provide much-needed exposure to investors. Financial institutions have also expressed optimism, pointing out that the centers will help SMEs formalize operations, improve governance, and enhance access to credit. However, experts cautioned that the success of the program will depend on sustained funding, strong partnerships, and effective outreach to ensure inclusivity.
Looking ahead, Nairobi County plans to expand the SME support centers to other sub-counties, creating a network of incubation hubs that can serve thousands of entrepreneurs. Officials believe that by investing in SMEs, the county will stimulate job creation, foster innovation, and strengthen Nairobi’s position as East Africa’s leading business hub. If implemented effectively, the program could become a model for other counties in Kenya, showcasing how local governments can drive economic growth by supporting small businesses at the grassroots level.