MSMEs in Kenya now have a new opportunity to grow their businesses thanks to a partnership between Co-operative Bank of Kenya and African Management Institute (AMI).
This partnership gives Co-op Bank’s MSME clients access to the Aspire Business Growth Programme, a high-impact training programme designed by AMI in partnership with Stanford Seed, a Stanford University programme supporting entrepreneurs in emerging markets.
What is Aspire?
Aspire Business Growth Programme is a practical, results-focused training for growth-stage businesses. It includes:
Interactive virtual workshops
Practical online learning tools
Peer-learning groups
Guest lecture from Stanford Graduate School of Business Faculty
The programme helps entrepreneurs build efficient systems, refine customer segmentation and marketing, improve financial management and build strong teams for long-term business sustainability.
Benefits for MSMEs
Participants in the Aspire Programme will learn how to:
Build business structures and systems for sustainable growth
Improve cash flow management and financial reporting
Create measurable goals and KPIs
Develop customer segmentation and marketing strategies
Attract and retain skilled employees
Track and measure performance metrics
Plus the top 15–20% performers from each cohort will get pro bono mentorship from Stanford Seed experts.
Quotes from the Stakeholders
“We are giving our MSME clients more than just credit – they’re getting world-class training to grow sustainably,” said James Nduati, Head of Micro Enterprises at Co-operative Bank.
Fatma Nasujo, Chief Operations and People Officer at AMI, added:
“We’ve found that traditional classroom training doesn’t work for entrepreneurs. Through this partnership, we’re providing practical tools that MSMEs can use immediately to scale and create jobs.”
How to Apply for Aspire Business Growth Programme
Enrolment opens in April 2025. Co-op Bank MSME clients interested in applying should follow these steps:
Visit the programme page: https://www.africanmanagers.com/aspire-stanford-seed
Review the eligibility criteria and programme structure3. Fill in the application form and submit
The programme is for entrepreneurs who are running and looking to grow their businesses. Early application is encouraged as slots are limited.
Why it matters
Kenya’s MSMEs are the backbone of the economy, accounting for most of the jobs and business activity. But many face challenges such as lack of skills, poor financial literacy and weak business structures. This partnership between Co-op Bank and AMI addresses these challenges head on and reinforces the bank’s commitment to long-term financial success for its business clients.
For more information, clients can also reach out to their nearest Co-op Bank branch or relationship manager for assistance with the application process.