Standard Chartered Bank recently hosted a Women’s Entrepreneurship Masterclass aimed at empowering women-owned businesses in Ghana. Recognizing the significant funding and support challenges faced by women entrepreneurs despite their proven higher loan repayment rates and broader socio-economic impact, the bank designed the masterclass to equip participants with practical tools and knowledge to foster business growth and attract investment. The event brought together industry experts and bank representatives to delve into key areas essential for business scalability and investment readiness.
The masterclass covered a range of critical topics vital for entrepreneurial success. Michael Asem, Chief Commercial Officer at SOLV Ghana, emphasized the importance of a patient and strategic approach to business growth, highlighting the often-overlooked need for robust financial literacy and discipline. He urged participants to explore available funding opportunities, including platforms like SOLV Ghana, which connect businesses with potential investors and financial institutions. This focus on financial management underscored the importance of sustainable growth strategies and access to capital, addressing a key challenge often faced by women-owned businesses.
Building a strong brand presence in the digital age was another key focus of the masterclass. Albert Essuman, a brand building expert from Standard Chartered Bank, emphasized the power of social media as a tool for business growth, urging entrepreneurs to cultivate a strategic online presence. He shared practical strategies for content optimization, thought leadership building, and shaping brand perception to attract the target audience. Essuman stressed that visibility in the digital space is no longer optional but essential for business success, highlighting the evolving landscape of marketing and the need for adaptability in the digital age. Furthermore, the training incorporated education on digital payments, emphasizing their growing importance in the increasingly cashless global economy.
The masterclass also addressed the crucial area of leadership development. Asiedua Addae, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing at Standard Chartered Bank, challenged participants to embrace continuous learning and adaptability. She encouraged women entrepreneurs to constantly update their knowledge and skills, emphasizing the “learn, unlearn, and relearn” approach necessary for navigating the ever-changing business environment. Addae further advocated for stepping outside comfort zones, building strong networks, and proactively pursuing funding opportunities. This emphasis on continuous learning and network building underscored the importance of personal and professional development in driving business growth.
Feedback from the participants highlighted the positive impact of the masterclass. The entrepreneurs described the session as both educational and refreshing, particularly appreciating the platform it provided for networking and connecting with like-minded individuals. Many also expressed the value gained from learning how to structure their businesses to enhance bankability, reflecting the practical and actionable nature of the training provided. This positive feedback reinforces the efficacy of the masterclass in addressing the specific needs of women entrepreneurs and providing them with tangible tools for success.
Through this initiative, Standard Chartered Bank solidifies its commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs, moving beyond mere inspiration to equip them with the practical knowledge, skills, and networks they need to build sustainable and investable businesses. By directly addressing the challenges that often hinder growth, the bank contributes to an ecosystem where women-owned businesses can not only survive but thrive in the competitive market landscape. This proactive approach demonstrates the bank’s dedication to fostering inclusive economic growth and empowering women to reach their full entrepreneurial potential.
The masterclass exemplifies a proactive approach to addressing the specific challenges faced by women entrepreneurs. By providing tailored training and support, Standard Chartered Bank fosters an environment where women-owned businesses can not only survive but thrive. The focus on financial literacy, digital marketing, leadership development, and access to networks provides participants with tangible resources to enhance their businesses’ growth potential and attract investment.
The emphasis on continuous learning and adaptability underscores the importance of staying ahead of the curve in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. By encouraging participants to embrace a “learn, unlearn, and relearn” mindset, the masterclass promotes a culture of innovation and resilience. This empowers women entrepreneurs to navigate challenges, adapt to market changes, and seize new opportunities for growth.
The masterclass’s success is evident in the positive feedback received from participants. The combination of practical training, networking opportunities, and expert insights provides a valuable platform for women entrepreneurs to develop their businesses and connect with like-minded individuals. This positive response reinforces the effectiveness of tailored support programs in driving positive outcomes for women-owned businesses.
Standard Chartered Bank’s commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs goes beyond simply providing training. By addressing the systemic challenges that hinder their growth, the bank contributes to creating a more inclusive and equitable business environment. This approach demonstrates the bank’s recognition of the crucial role women entrepreneurs play in driving economic growth and development.
The Women’s Entrepreneurship Masterclass serves as a model for other institutions seeking to support women-owned businesses. By focusing on practical skills development, access to finance, and network building, such initiatives can effectively address the specific challenges faced by women entrepreneurs and empower them to achieve their full potential. This fosters a more diverse and resilient economy, benefiting both individual businesses and the wider community.
