Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Accra were given a powerful boost as Stanbic Bank Ghana, through its Business Incubator, hosted another impactful SME Clinic designed to transform the capabilities of local businesses.
The event, widely regarded as a mega clinic due to its scale and depth, focused on digital visibility, operational efficiency, and people management. It attracted a strong mix of entrepreneurs, business owners, industry leaders, and resource persons dedicated to strengthening Ghana’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Delivering the opening address on behalf of the Head of Business and Commercial Banking, Dinah Kaleo Bioh, Benedict Kwasi Obeng, Head of Business Development and Origination, emphasized the Bank’s unshakable commitment to supporting SMEs. He described SMEs as the “heartbeat of Ghana’s economy” and highlighted their essential role in job creation and national development. According to him, SMEs make up about 92 percent of registered businesses in Ghana.
Mr. Obeng noted that the Bank’s goal is to see Ghanaian businesses thrive locally and internationally.
“Our goal at Stanbic is to see Ghanaian businesses grow, thrive, and compete on both local and international fronts. When SMEs succeed, the entire economy benefits. That’s why we are intentional about creating spaces like this to share knowledge and practical tools that foster sustainable growth.”
Benedict Kwasi Obeng
A Clinic Designed for Real Business Challenges
This year’s SME Clinic featured a well curated mix of expert led sessions tailored to address some of the most pressing issues faced by Ghanaian businesses. Participants were exposed to lessons and practical guidance on digital strategies, operations optimization, and workforce planning. The clinic combined expert presentations with interactive activities that encouraged engagement and hands on learning.
The diversity of topics reflected the Incubator’s understanding of the evolving needs of modern businesses. The Bank believes that increasing competition, rising customer expectations, and rapid digital transformation require SMEs to adopt smarter systems and stronger structures.
One of the key sessions was led by Mark Kumordzi, People and Culture Business Partner at Stanbic Bank Ghana. He focused on workplace culture, people management, and the strategic importance of workforce planning. According to him, understanding how operational capacity aligns with business demand is essential for building effective teams.
“People are the engine of every business. It is crucial for SMEs to align the right people with the right roles, whether permanent, temporary, or seasonal. This balance helps maintain productivity while ensuring customer satisfaction.”
Mark Kumordzi
His session resonated strongly with participants who expressed appreciation for the practical insights into team structuring and capacity building.
Digital Presence Becomes a Priority for Growth
Digital visibility was another major highlight of the clinic. Dr. Boahemaa Ntim, CEO of Blacksmith Africa Consulting, led the session on marketing and digital strategy. She underscored the importance of online presence in today’s competitive business environment and urged businesses to be deliberate about how they present their brands online.
“Visibility is now vital. Businesses must know their customers, engage them meaningfully, and make every digital interaction count. A strong online presence builds credibility, trust, and ultimately, growth.”
Dr. Boahemaa Ntim
Participants expressed excitement about the new digital tools and strategies shared during the session, with many admitting that they had underestimated the power of online engagement.
Operational excellence also formed a core part of the program. Stephenia Amponsah, Business Advisory Centre Head for Accra at the Ghana Enterprises Agency, explained that operational efficiency remains the “backbone of every thriving business.” She emphasized the importance of setting clear work standards, maintaining strong quality control systems, and establishing efficient supply chain structures.
Her presentation offered practical frameworks that SMEs could immediately implement to improve productivity and reduce waste.
Building Networks and Strengthening Entrepreneurial Capacity
Gloria Bempong, Head of Enterprise Banking at Stanbic Bank Ghana, commended the participants for their commitment and enthusiasm throughout the event. She encouraged entrepreneurs to build lasting networks and connections that could support their long term business growth. “Today’s clinic was not just about learning, it was about unlocking potential, sharing experiences, and building connections that will continue to shape the future of your businesses,” she said.
Speaking after the event, Hamza Mumuni, Manager of the Stanbic Business Incubator, shared his satisfaction with the impact of the clinic and highlighted its continuous evolution.
“This year’s edition was particularly unique because we focused on areas that our participants themselves identified as critical. The feedback has been phenomenal, and it is fulfilling to see how our interventions are shaping real business outcomes.”
Hamza Mumuni
Mr. Mumuni revealed that the Incubator has already organized four SME Clinics in different regions and plans to conclude the year with editions in Takoradi and Ho.
“By the end of the year, we expect to have engaged close to 700 SMEs across six regions. It shows how far we have come and how much more we can do to strengthen Ghana’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.”
Hamza Mumuni
Participants described the clinic as both inspiring and practical. One business owner shared their excitement about the knowledge gained, saying, “The discussions on digital marketing and people management have completely changed my perspective. I am leaving here with a clear plan to rebrand my business and improve efficiency.”
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