The Partnership Unveiled
Kua Ventures, a faith-driven impact investor headquartered in Nairobi, has teamed up with Startup Savanna, an initiative dedicated to fostering entrepreneurial innovation in Kenya, to bolster support for SMEs in the region. Through this collaboration, 10 entrepreneurs were given the opportunity to pitch for funding of up to Ksh15 million for their businesses, marking a significant step towards bridging the gap between local entrepreneurship and access to finance.
Addressing Financial Challenges for SMEs
The partnership between Kua Ventures and Startup Savanna represents a concerted effort within the private sector to tackle the persistent challenges faced by SMEs in East Africa, particularly in accessing finance. By leveraging the 3C model—comprising capital, coaching, and community—Kua Ventures aims to provide holistic support to SMEs, enabling them to unlock their full potential and drive sustainable growth.
The 3C Model: A Blueprint for Success
At the heart of Kua Ventures' support for SMEs lies the innovative 3C model, which offers a multifaceted approach to entrepreneurship development. Through capital infusion in the form of secured and revenue-based loans ranging from Ksh5 million to Ksh15 million, coupled with personalized coaching from local and international mentors, and a vibrant community network, Kua Ventures empowers entrepreneurs to thrive and succeed in the competitive business landscape.
A Commitment to Sustainable Development
Peter Fry, Executive Director of Kua Ventures, underscores the transformative potential of the collaboration with Startup Savanna in driving sustainable development and social change. By synergizing expertise and resources, Kua Ventures and Startup Savanna aim to catalyze innovation, foster growth, and create lasting social impact, thereby contributing to poverty alleviation and job creation in the region.
Startup Savanna's Vision
For Startup Savanna, the collaboration with Kua Ventures signifies a significant milestone in its mission to cultivate a vibrant innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem in Kenya. Recognizing entrepreneurs as the engine of economic growth, Startup Savanna provides essential platforms for learning, networking, and growth, ensuring that entrepreneurs have the support they need to thrive in today's dynamic business environment.
Showcasing Innovation: The Pitch Event
The recent pitch event served as a testament to the innovative spirit of East African entrepreneurs, providing a platform for ventures across various sectors—including green energy, education, agribusiness, hospitality, and more—to showcase their solutions and seek funding for scaling their businesses and making a tangible impact on society.
As Kua Ventures and Startup Savanna join forces to support East African SMEs, they pave the way for a new era of entrepreneurial empowerment and economic prosperity in the region.
