Equity, IFC Launch 10,000 Women Program to Empower Kenyan Entrepreneurs
Equity Bank Kenya and Equity Group Foundation (EGF) have partnered with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to launch the globally acclaimed Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women program in Kenya. The initiative aims to empower women entrepreneurs with practical business education and unlock their potential to contribute to inclusive economic growth.
The program, developed by Goldman Sachs and delivered online through the University of Leeds, offers women-led small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) access to ten interactive courses. Participants will also become eligible to join the global 10,000 Women alumni network.
The program targets Equity Bank and EGF clients, particularly women engaged in the long-standing Fanikisha program, which has supported women entrepreneurs since 2007.
Through the 20-week online course, women will gain essential financial literacy, business management, and leadership skills to grow their ventures. Equity Bank will use its Fanikisha ecosystem and segmented customer base including Shaba, Almasi, Dhahabu, and Platini women clients to identify and support participants across the country.
Dr. James Mwangi, Equity Group MD and CEO, said, “Equity is deeply committed to empowering women in business and enhancing financial inclusion. Through this partnership with IFC, we will deliver world-class training to women entrepreneurs, equipping them with the tools to thrive in Kenya’s competitive economy. Our regional reach and digital platforms will ensure accessibility across all regions.”
The program aligns with Equity Group’s broader financial inclusion strategy, which includes Pamoja Banking, a group lending approach that supports grassroots entrepreneurs with credit, training, and community support. This model fosters a culture of entrepreneurship and collective economic upliftment.
Jesman Chonzi, Manager of IFC’s Financial Institutions Group for East Africa, emphasized the significance of the partnership. “Empowering women entrepreneurs is crucial for sustainable development.
With 83 percent of women-owned MSMEs in Kenya lacking access to finance, the 10,000 Women program addresses a critical gap. We are proud to work with Equity to build the capacity of these women and support Kenya’s economic transformation.”
The initiative is expected to enhance the bankability and business performance of women entrepreneurs, contributing to job creation, economic diversification, and inclusive growth across Kenya.
