I&M Bank has announced a strategic partnership with B Lab Africa to upskill Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). The collaboration introduces the Resilient Sustainable Business (RSB) programme. Scheduled to commence in March 2026, this initiative is designed to equip growing businesses with the tools needed to integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices into their core operations.
The programme specifically targets established businesses generating annual revenues between KES 6 million and KES 120 million. Furthermore, eligible enterprises must have teams comprising 10 to 100 employees. These metrics indicate a deliberate focus on companies that have successfully moved beyond the initial proof of concept. The initiative is tailored for businesses currently scaling operations, expanding market reach, and strengthening their internal infrastructure.
Through this capacity-building initiative, I&M Bank aims to strengthen SMEs within its ecosystem by supporting their transition towards resilient operations. This aligns seamlessly with the Bank’s broader commitment to enabling long-term growth within Kenya’s SME sector.
Shameer Patel, Director of Retail & Business Banking at I&M Bank, noted during the launch ceremony that the bank is intentionally investing in building stronger, more resilient SMEs. He stated that these businesses will be equipped to adapt to evolving market dynamics and create sustainable long-term value. Patel added that the programme will strengthen operational resilience while unlocking new opportunities for inclusive and sustainable growth.
The initiative focuses heavily on high-impact sectors, specifically targeting Agri-Tech, Green Energy, Manufacturing, the Circular Economy, and Sustainable Consumer Brands. The goal is to nurture a new generation of African businesses that measure success by both financial returns and clear environmental and social impact.
Lucy Muigai, CEO of B Lab Africa, stated that the partnership is a testament to the growing movement of businesses in Africa committed to a higher standard of accountability. She highlighted that by integrating ESG into the heart of operations, they are not just helping companies survive, but are building a more inclusive and regenerative economic system across the continent. Muigai described these entrepreneurs as the blueprint for a future where corporate success is inextricably linked to the wellbeing of communities and the planet.
Participating SMEs will engage in a nine-week blended learning experience featuring a hybrid model. The structural benefits of the programme include:
- A curriculum featuring expert-led Modules covering six comprehensive sessions.
- Detailed training on Impact Measurement, Sustainable Supply Chains, and Financing Sustainable Practices.
- Bi-monthly one-on-one calls designed to provide tailored guidance and accountability.
- Direct peer networking with a community of likeminded business leaders across Kenya, South Africa, Mauritius, and Nigeria.
To lower the barrier to entry for scaling businesses, I&M Bank will heavily subsidise the cost. The bank is sponsoring 80% of the programme cost per participant, amounting to USD 240. Each participating SME is only required to contribute the remaining 20%, which totals USD 60.
