KEPSA, in collaboration with the International Trade Centre (ITC), recently held an Access to Finance Workshop at the KEPSA offices. The workshop provided valuable insights into funding opportunities for SMEs through ITC's MARK UP II program, focusing on three key sectors in Kenya:

• Packaging
• Coffee
• Leather

SMEs from these sectors were introduced to the EU-EAC MARK UP II program, funded by the European Union and implemented by ITC. This regional development initiative supports small and medium-sized enterprises in the East African Community by enhancing their export competitiveness, value addition, and market access.

A key highlight of the workshop was the introduction of the MSME Financing Gateway Platform, a digital initiative by ITC in partnership with KEPSA under the MARK UP II program. This platform connects MSMEs with various financial facilities and business development services, providing them with easy access to information on tailored financial products and services.

Participants also learned about ITC-designed tools to assess their business performance and connect with relevant capital providers and business support services.