Staff Writer
Standard Bank Namibia has concluded the blue growth series, a four-month micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) capacity-building pilot that supported 40 Namibian micro, small and medium enterprises across various sectors.
The programme ended with a closing event at the bank’s headquarters, highlighting the progress made by participants as they moved from early-stage potential to investment-ready businesses.
Launched in August 2025, the programme attracted 695 applicants. It was designed to equip MSMEs with structured training, mentorship, and internationally recognised certifications from institutions such as Harvard Manage Mentor and Bloomberg Finance Lab.
Of the 297 MSMEs that qualified, 45% were women-led businesses, reflecting the programme’s focus on inclusion.
Participants completed more than 40 hours of intensive training. The sessions focused on formalising business relationships with institutions such as the Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA), the Namibia Revenue Agency(NamRA) and the Social Security Commission. Many also established new business banking relationships to support their growth. The training strengthened business capacity in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, ICT, food and beverage, hair and beauty, crafts, retail and construction.
During the certification event, a pitching competition was held.
The winner, Jane Auala, founder of Ontoko Poultry, said, “We’ve been fortunate to be part of the Standard Bank Blue Growth Series, where we learned how to better manage our business, and our financial governance. I would definitely encourage any startup business interested in growth to apply to be a part of this programme.”
The programme was delivered in partnership with the Namibia Investment and Finance Academy, which focuses on improving financial literacy, investment readiness and sustainability for Namibian SMEs.
The collaboration forms part of Standard Bank Namibia’s strategy to strengthen the MSME sector, which it views as essential for inclusive economic growth.
Following the success of the pilot, the bank is considering expanding the Blue Growth Series to reach more entrepreneurs and deepen its role in Namibia’s business development space.
NIFA continues to support MSME growth through programmes that aim to improve financial education and entrepreneurial skills.
Caption
Standard Bank Namibia marked the successful culmination of the blue growth series.
Photo: Contributed
