Access to venture capital and other forms of growth financing continues to be one of the biggest challenges for Kenyan SMEs and Startups. While the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is vibrant, many founders still struggle with limited funding pathways, inadequate investor readiness, and a lack of clarity on available financial instruments.
To address this gap, Abojani held a webinar to discuss business financing options in Kenya and Africa. The session brought together experts working directly in Africa’s financing landscape, including Astou Dia, Boost Africa TA Facility Lead, European Investment Bank and Adolfo Cires, Boost Africa Lead, European Commission to unpack the opportunities available to local entrepreneurs.
Also read: Understanding Boost Africa Intermediaries
Here are the key takeaways
1. Know your numbers
Both experts stressed that many SMEs lose funding opportunities because they cannot articulate their financials. Investors want clarity on:
- Revenues and costs
- Cash flow
- Growth projections
Astou emphasized that financials tell the real story of your business, and founders must be able to explain the “why” behind their numbers.
2. Align strategy with growth
SMEs need a clear, realistic plan for how they will grow. Boost Africa helps companies refine strategies, strengthen execution plans, and identify talent gaps especially at senior levels, where many SMEs struggle.
A strong team and clear systems signal readiness for scale.
3. Patient capital is essential
Adolfo highlighted the need for financing that accommodates long-term growth. Unlike bank loans, private equity and venture capital provide:
- Flexible structures
- Strategic support
- Board participation
- Time for businesses to grow
He stressed that investors become partners, not controllers.
4. Technical Assistance gives SMEs an edge
Boost Africa offers three layers of support:
- Bespoke technical assistance: e.g., improving governance, revamping IT systems, training teams.
- Structured training: finance management, governance, investor readiness, operational excellence.
- Mentorship: pairing SMEs with experienced entrepreneurs who offer real-world guidance.
These interventions help SME systems mature faster.
5. Peer learning builds stronger businesses
Portfolio-based learning allows founders to exchange insights on common challenges talent, growth, funding helping them avoid mistakes others have already faced.
What helps SMEs secure funding?
According to Boost Africa, successful SMEs:
- Understand their customers and market
- Maintain clean, accurate financials
- Present a credible growth plan
- Are operationally prepared
- Diversify funding options
- Stay open to learning
Funding shouldn’t rely on venture capital alone grants, mezzanine finance, private equity, and development finance all play a role.
Accessing Venture Capital for Business: Lessons from Boost Africa Programme
Passcode: VCBoost@25
Conclusion
Kenyan SMEs need more than capital. They need strong systems, talent, and the right long-term partners.
The Boost Africa programme offers a comprehensive approach to building investor-ready,
