Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of Kenya’s economy, but most of them face one major hurdle, which is access to finance. For many, securing the funds needed to grow and expand their businesses feel like a battle. With traditional lending institutions often reluctant to take on the risk, SMEs are left with fewer options to fund their ambitions.
This is where partnerships like the one between NCBA and the African Guarantee Fund (AGF) make a significant difference, offering businesses a chance to access much-needed support while managing risk.
Also Read: How NCBA is Kicking Off Its Citizenship & Sustainability Initiatives in 2025
On 3rd March 2025, NCBA renewed its partnership with AGF, extending their agreement for the next 10 years and increasing the KES 3 billion guarantee. This renewal goes beyond a financial agreement. It signifies a shared belief in the power of SMEs to drive economic change and uplift communities.
By expanding this partnership, both organizations are doubling down on their commitment to ensuring that more businesses, particularly those led by women and youth, have the opportunity to succeed.
Over the years, the partnership has already helped 696 SMEs secure loans totaling KES 8 billion, which has in turn supported more than 3,500 transactions. These loans have helped businesses grow and also been a major driver in creating over 7,200 jobs.
What’s even more powerful is that this support is specifically designed to empower marginalized groups…2,200 of those jobs target women, and 4,100 go to youth. This is exactly the kind of impact that can change lives and help communities thrive.
But the partnership isn’t just focused on providing financial assistance. Rather, also about creating lasting change. With a particular focus on renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, this collaboration aims to support long-term economic growth while addressing some of Kenya’s most pressing environmental challenges. By supporting businesses that are focused on sustainability, NCBA and AGF are ensuring that Kenya’s economic progress doesn’t come at the expense of its future.
What’s really powerful about this renewed partnership is the long-term nature of the agreement. The 10-year commitment provides businesses with the stability they need to plan, invest, and grow without the stress of short-term loan deadlines.
This is giving entrepreneurs the breathing room to think beyond today and envision what their business can become tomorrow. That kind of stability is hard to come by, and it’s something that will help entrepreneurs across Kenya feel empowered to take bold steps toward their goals.
We can view this partnership between NCBA and AGF as a reminder of what’s possible when organizations come together with a shared purpose. By focusing on the long-term success of SMEs, especially those led by women and youth, this partnership is helping to lay the foundation for a more inclusive society. Every job created, every business empowered, and every project supported has a ripple effect that goes far beyond the bottom line. It’s more of building a future where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
