Visa Kenya has unveiled the top five women business owners competing for the prestigious Sh2.5 million grand prize in the She’s Next Kenya program. Launched to bolster women-led small businesses through funding, training, and mentorship, the initiative received an overwhelming response with over 2,300 applications across Kenya. The finalists—Busu Naturals, Cladfy, Code with Kids, Crafts with Meaning, and Timao Group—stand out for their exceptional business acumen and innovation.
Eva Ngigi-Sarwari, Country Manager at Visa Kenya, emphasized the program’s role in empowering women entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth. She noted the finalists’ diverse contributions across various industries, highlighting their potential impact on the Kenyan economy and beyond.
The finalists will vie for the grand prize, set to be announced on July 10th, 2024, following a month-long competition that closed in June. Additionally, 15 SMEs will enter a capacity-building and mentorship program in collaboration with Kayana Create, a community dedicated to empowering female entrepreneurs.
Patricia Okello, co-founder of Kayana Create, commended the She’s Next program and congratulated the finalists for their determination and innovation. She expressed excitement about the upcoming presentations and underscored the inspiring journey of these women-led businesses.
Each finalist represents a unique sector—from sustainability and financial services to STEM education—showcasing the breadth of entrepreneurial talent in Kenya. Busu Naturals pioneers locally manufactured skincare solutions, while Cladfy supports micro-businesses with essential working capital loans. Code with Kids promotes STEM education accessibility, and Crafts with Meaning celebrates African heritage through lifestyle accessories. Timao Group addresses environmental challenges by transforming plastic waste into affordable housing solutions.
Kenya’s vibrant SME landscape, comprising 1.5 million registered and 7.4 million informal enterprises, underscores their pivotal role in economic development and poverty alleviation. These SMEs not only drive innovation but also generate significant income opportunities across diverse sectors.
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