Kua Ventures, a faith-driven impact investor based in Nairobi, has partnered with Startup Savanna, a promoter of innovative entrepreneurship in Kenya, to support growth of SMEs.

The collaboration between Kua Ventures and Startup Savanna will see 10 entrepreneurs pitch for chance to secure a maximum of Sh15 million in funding for their businesses.

Kua Ventures says the partnership will see SMEs receive support through the 3C (capital, coaching and community) model.

The capital aspect will see SMEs get secured and revenue-based loans of Sh5-15 million for business growth and expansion, while the coaching aspect will match entrepreneurs with local and global mentors to boost their leadership skills and polish their business strategies.

Similarly, the community component of the initiative will enable like-minded entrepreneurs within the Kua Ventures portfolio to connect, share ideas and enhance their capacity.

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Startup Savanna, a key part of the Kenya Industry and Entrepreneurship Project (KIEP) funded by World Bank, aids Kenyan startups to access global expertise, investment, and support infrastructure.

Speaking at the pitching event, Kua Ventures Executive Director Peter Fry said the Kua Ventures - Startup Savannah partnership will drive sustainable growth and social change.

“We are thrilled to partner with Startup Savanna in our shared mission of supporting local entrepreneurship and promoting social change,” indicated Fry.

He added: “By combining our expertise and resources, we aim to help local entrepreneurs to innovate, grow and create lasting social impact in the region through the creation of stable jobs and contribution to global efforts of reducing poverty in our communities.”

Startup Savanna implementing team Lead Jackson Kinyanjui said the initiative marks a key milestone in efforts to build a vibrant innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem in Kenya.

“Entrepreneurs are the backbone of our economy, and we continue to give them platforms to learn and grow,” intimated Kinyanjui.

The pitching event in Nairobi provided as a platform for SMEs to stage their innovative solutions, network, and seek funding that will enable them to scale their businesses.

The 10 ventures that pitched were drawn from varied sectors and industries including green energy, education, agribusiness, hospitality, events management and laundry services.

They are;

• Pauline Wanjiku from TLC Laundry

• Victor Maina from Duhqa

• Jackie Kamau from The Laundry Lady

• Meshack Mutisya from Irish Events & Catering

• Martin Muigah from Event Automation Solutions

• Edward Kinyanjui from Plexus Energy

• Peter Muraya from Victoria Kids Care

• David Wanjau from Deevabits Green Energy

• Chris Silali from GenePlus Global