Cooperative Bank partners with African Management Institute to support MSMEs

The Co-operative Bank of Kenya and the African Management Institute (AMI) have partnered to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

MSMEs are set to gain a competitive edge through the partnership.

The strategic collaboration brings Co-op Bank’s MSME clients access to the Aspire Business Growth Programme.

The programme is designed by AMI in collaboration with Stanford Seed to accelerate business growth and equip entrepreneurs with the skills, tools, and strategies needed to scale.

Aspire blends AMI’s practical business learning approach with the expertise of Stanford Seed, offering a unique learning journey for growth-stage businesses.

MSME owners will join a dynamic community of business owners from across Africa, engaging in interactive virtual workshops, practical online courses, and peer-learning experiences.

A highlight of the programme is a live guest lecture from the Stanford Graduate School of Business Faculty, providing exclusive insights from global business experts.

Co-operative Bank Head of Micro Enterprises James Nduati said the programme will equip them with the knowledge and skills to grow and sustain their businesses.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to supporting the long-term success of Kenya’s entrepreneurs, ultimately driving economic growth and job creation,” he said.

The top 15-20 per cent of high-performing businesses in each cohort will receive pro bono access to Stanford Seed mentors, further strengthening their growth trajectory.

MSME owners will learn effective business systems and structures for sustainable growth, clear customer segmentation and targeted marketing strategies, improved financial reporting and cash flow management, measurable goals and key performance indicators (KPIs) and strategies for recruiting and retaining skilled employees.

The partnership also strengthens MSME-bank relationships, ensuring businesses not only survive but also thrive, leading to improved loan repayment rates, higher profitability, and long-term financial stability.

AMI Chief Operations and People Officer Fatma Nasujo said that MSMEs are the real heroes of Kenya’s economy, yet many lack the resources for sustainable growth.

“Traditional training often takes entrepreneurs away from their businesses and puts them in a classroom with an expert. Research shows that this doesn’t deliver real impact.

"At AMI, we’ve spent a decade refining a data-driven, practical approach that equips MSMEs with the right tools at the right time to scale and create jobs. Through this partnership with Co-op Bank, we’re providing MSMEs with the support they need to thrive,” Nasujo said.