Standard Bank Namibia supports 68 entrepreneurs
68 Namibian entrepreneurs completed a business support programme, with 27 pitching for funding.
Standard Bank Namibia has concluded its 2026 Blue Growth Series, a programme aimed at supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs). A total of 68 entrepreneurs completed the initiative, which partnered with the Namibia Investment and Finance Academy (NIFA). The programme seeks to help local businesses overcome challenges in accessing finance and developing their operations.
The Blue Growth Series prepared entrepreneurs to meet the requirements of financial institutions. According to Standard Bank Namibia, five entrepreneurs secured financing, 42 reported increased business income, and 16 opened new business accounts. Hellen Amupolo, Standard Bank Namibia Executive Officer for Business and Commercial Banking, stated that SMEs are the backbone of Namibia’s economy, requiring skills and market access alongside capital.
27 businesses deemed investment-ready participated in a Pitch Day, presenting to potential financiers and buyers. The programme also provided subsidised management accounts and advisory services. The number of participating enterprises grew from 40 in 2025 to almost 80 in 2026, with almost 120 businesses supported over two years.
Why it matters68 Namibian entrepreneurs completed a business support programme designed to improve their access to finance and business development.