Accra: Fidelity Bank Ghana has announced a significant commitment of over GHS 500,000 to support creative entrepreneurs, marking the conclusion of its third annual Sustainability Conference.
According to Ghana News Agency, this financial initiative aims to foster sustainable development and growth for the beneficiaries' businesses. Ms Julian Opuni, the Managing Director of Fidelity Bank, highlighted the rigorous process the finalists underwent, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and supporting their potential.
The conference, held in Accra, was also the occasion to announce the winners of the 'Orange Inspire Creative Challenge'. Love Ankara emerged as the overall winner, securing GHS 150,000 in funding. The Church of Stories and Stay by Plan were each awarded GHS 100,000, while Abrita Holdings and GRC Concepts received GHS 50,000 each. The remaining finalists, including Fashion Xcel, O Games Studio, and Experience Africa VR, were granted GHS 25,000 each, ensuring all eight finalists received support.
Zia Choudhury, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Ghana, praised Fidelity Bank for aligning its operations with global sustainability standards, particularly noting their commitment to the UN Principles for Responsible Banking and the UNEP's Finance Initiative. He acknowledged the bank's efforts in offering practical solutions like concessional loans and financing renewable energy systems.
Maame Efua Tandoh of Love Ankara expressed gratitude for the opportunity provided by Fidelity Bank, highlighting the challenges faced in securing funding as a creative entrepreneur. She stressed the transformative impact of the program and pledged to champion the knowledge and training received from the bank.
Nana Yaa Afriyie Ofori-Koree, Head of Partnership, Sustainability, and CSR at Fidelity Bank, reaffirmed the bank's commitment to sustainability, announcing the forthcoming launch of the Fidelity 2026-2030 Sustainability Strategy. This initiative aims to position the bank as a key partner in Ghana's green transition.
The conference was organized in collaboration with UN Ghana, the Institute of Sustainability Professional Ghana, Joy FM, Joy Business, and The Palms by Eagles. It brought together stakeholders from various sectors to discuss the theme 'Aligning Finance with Climate Action'. The discussions emphasized the importance of scalable climate finance and the role of banks in supporting businesses through Environmental Sustainability Governance frameworks.
