Synopsis:
SMEs face a critical skills shortage that threatens their growth potential, with seven in ten SME business owners struggling to source and retain adequately skilled staff. The challenge is compounded by rapid technological advancement and evolving market demands that require entrepreneurs to master diverse competencies from financial management and digital marketing to operational efficiency and strategic planning. Traditional education systems often fail to address the practical, real-world skills that SME founders need to navigate complex business environments.
The skills gap has become a major barrier to SME competitiveness and scaling, particularly as businesses must adapt to digital transformation, changing consumer behaviors, and economic volatility. These programs are proving effective in enhancing entrepreneurial competence, improving business performance, and building the resilience needed for long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
The panel explored practical training approaches that addressed specific SME skill gaps, from basic business fundamentals to advanced digital capabilities and leadership development. Discussions covered designing flexible learning programs that accommodated busy entrepreneurs, leveraging technology for scalable training delivery, and measuring the impact of upskilling on business outcomes.
Speakers:
John Gachora, Group Managing Director, NCBA Group
Nankhonde Kasonde-van den Broek, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Zanga African Metrics
Nkosikhona Mbatha, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency
Veronica Nyhan Jones, Global Head, Climate Capacity and Inclusion Accelerator, International Finance Corporation (IFC)
Moderator:
Carissa Reiniger, Chief Executive Officer, Silver Lining Ltd, USA