High-impact forum in Nairobi for Women-Led SMEs tackles funding gaps, digital innovation, and policy inclusion to accelerate growth for women entrepreneurs across the region
Driven by the goal of inclusive economic growth, Women Choice hosted a high-impact forum in Kenya. The event, titled Driving Growth for Women-Led SMEs, focused on empowering women entrepreneurs. The international organization aims to support sustainable initiatives that promote economic inclusion.
The forum, themed Scaling Women-Led SMEs: Opportunities, Challenges & Strategic Growth, marked its first edition. It brought together 45 changemakers, including women entrepreneurs, business leaders, and ecosystem enablers to discuss key challenges holding back the growth of women-led enterprises.
The forum took place amid a challenging yet evolving SME landscape. In Kenya, only 7% of women-owned MSMEs have formal access to finance. The discussion explored barriers such as limited capital and regulatory challenges. It also highlighted alternative funding options like microfinance and grants.
Nezha Alaoui, CEO of Women Choice, reaffirmed the organization’s mission to accelerate women founders through strategic partnerships. “This forum is not a destination, it’s a blueprint for unlocking greatness. It’s evident that women-led SMEs are not ‘emerging’, they are an essential pillar to Kenya’s prosperity. Today’s conversation marks the beginning of a long-term action-driven agenda.”
A recurring theme across the interactive panel discussion was the urgent need for intentional inclusion, not just in policy, but in partnerships, mentorship, and procurement opportunities. Panelists further emphasized the role of community networks and digital innovation in accelerating growth.
Networking and embracing tech
Susan Situma, Director of Programs at the Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund, reminded women entrepreneurs that not all funding is beneficial. She emphasized the need to understand their environment, join women-focused networks, and build structured businesses that attract the right support.
“You can’t scale what you haven’t structured,” she said. “Research your sector, join aligned associations, and create visibility, because investors don’t just fund ideas; they fund systems they can trust.”
Underscoring the importance of decolonizing mindsets, women entrepreneurs were urged to embrace tech as an enabler, and start building businesses rooted in local insight and global relevance.
“Before chasing funding, ask: what pain areas am I solving? What gain am I offering? Customers are your biggest funders, focus on value, feedback, and trust, not just donor terms,” said, Sheena Raikundalia, Chief Growth Officer, Kuza One.
Protecting valuable data
“Every business problem is a gateway to innovation. But growth without cybersecurity is a risk. Embrace zero-trust strategies, cloud tools, and compliance with global standards like GDPR,” said Martine Billmann, Marketing Manager, Middle East, Turkey and Africa, Genetec. “In a digital world, cybersecurity isn’t optional, it’s your business armor. Use secure, scalable platforms and train your teams. You can’t scale what you can’t protect.”
Carolyne Tanui, Principal Corporate Communications Officer at the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner and former business editor, urged women entrepreneurs to stay consistent, visible, and compliant. She emphasized that governance isn’t just for large companies and every business, regardless of size, has a duty to protect its customers and their data.
“Your brand, both personal and corporate, is your reputation. Compliance with laws, especially around data protection builds trust and trust is the currency of long-term success.” she added.
With women being the majority in MSMEs, contributing significantly towards job creation and Kenya’s GDP, the event outlined the need for collaborative efforts to support women-led businesses.
“Every woman we empower through entrepreneurship contributes meaningfully to a stronger economy and community,” said Mareva Koulamallah, founder and CEO, Marevak Consulting. “The math is simple, the impact is exponential.”
