I&M Bank Deepens SME Support Through Capacity-Building Partnership with B Lab Africa
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I&M Bank Deepens SME Support Through Capacity-Building Partnership with B Lab Africa
A Strategic Push for Sustainable SME Growth
I&M Bank has partnered with B Lab Africa to strengthen Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through the Resilient Sustainable Business (RSB) programme.
The nine-week programme will begin in March 2026. It combines physical and virtual learning to help SMEs integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into their core strategies.
B Lab Africa designed the RSB programme as a practical learning experience. It equips business owners with tools, frameworks, and expert guidance. As a result, participating SMEs can build resilient and future-ready models.
The programme targets established businesses with annual revenues between KES 6 million and KES 120 million. It also focuses on firms employing 10 to 100 staff.
These enterprises have moved beyond proof of concept. Now, they aim to scale operations, expand markets, and strengthen internal systems.
Through this initiative, I&M Bank seeks to strengthen SME capacity within its ecosystem. In addition, the programme reinforces the bank’s broader commitment to long-term SME growth in Kenya.
I&M Bank Deepens SME Support Through Capacity-Building Partnership with B Lab Africa
Leadership Backing and Long-Term Vision
Speaking at the launch, Shameer Patel, Director of Retail & Business Banking at I&M Bank, described the partnership as transformative.
“We continue to empower our SME clients through this collaboration with B Lab Africa,” he said. “We are deliberately investing in stronger and more resilient businesses. Consequently, these enterprises can adapt to shifting markets and create sustainable value.”
He added that the programme will strengthen operational resilience while unlocking inclusive growth opportunities.
Meanwhile, Lucy Muigai, CEO of B Lab Africa, emphasised accountability and impact.
“This partnership reflects a growing movement across Africa,” she said. “By embedding ESG at the heart of SME operations, we build an inclusive and regenerative economic system.”
She noted that entrepreneurs must measure success beyond profit. Instead, they should prioritise environmental stewardship and social impact alongside financial returns.
What Participating SMEs Will Gain
The RSB programme focuses on high-impact sectors. These include Manufacturing, Agri-Tech, the Circular Economy, Green Energy, and Sustainable Consumer Brands.
Participants will access six expert-led modules. These sessions cover Impact Measurement, Sustainable Supply Chains, and Financing Sustainable Practices.
In addition, SMEs will receive bi-monthly one-on-one coaching for tailored support. They will also join a regional peer network spanning Kenya, South Africa, Mauritius, and Nigeria.
Importantly, I&M Bank will sponsor 80% of the programme cost. Each participant will pay USD 60, while the bank will cover USD 240.
Through this investment, I&M Bank positions itself not only as a financier, but also as a long-term growth partner for Kenya’s SME sector.
