Accra: Stanbic Bank Ghana has successfully launched the maiden edition of Stanbic Trade Connect, a new initiative designed to prepare Ghanaian entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) for entry into the global market. Held under the theme: 'Global Gateway: Preparing Your Business for the International Market,' the event brought together business owners across various sectors.
According to Ghana News Agency, Eric Tsiri, Head of Enterprise Banking at Stanbic Bank, addressed the participants, highlighting that the platform aims to equip local entrepreneurs with the necessary knowledge, network, and tools to scale beyond Ghana's borders. This initiative follows the recurring challenge faced by many businesses eager to expand internationally but lacking essential knowledge and resources.
Tsiri emphasized that the event was more than just a training session, stating, "We want to walk with you, explore markets together, foster partnerships, and connect you to opportunities beyond Ghana. Today is about preparing you to take your rightful place in international trade." He encouraged participants to adopt a global entrepreneurial mindset, urging them to think beyond their current market and emphasize the unique solutions or products they offer.
Manager of the Stanbic Bank Incubator, Mr. Hamza Mumuni, highlighted access to funding as one of the most pressing challenges facing SMEs. He explained that the incubator program is designed to bridge this gap by helping businesses reach a maturity level that attracts investors and lenders. Mumuni noted, "Funding is a major hurdle for SMEs, especially within our conventional banking systems. Through our incubator, we're working to connect businesses with soft loans, grants, and other support mechanisms to strengthen their operations."
Anthony Morrison, CEO of the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding business innovations and identity. He pointed out that neglecting intellectual property is a major oversight for entrepreneurs, as it defines competitive advantage and is critical for sustainable business success.
The Stanbic Trade Connect initiative forms part of the bank's broader commitment to supporting the private sector, particularly SMEs, which are widely regarded as the engine of Ghana's economic growth.
