By Christabel DANSO ABEAM
FirstBank Ghana has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the launch of its SME Connect Workshop in Accra’s central business district.
The initiative’s maiden edition brought together business owners, market leaders and stakeholders from key commercial hubs including Makola, Okaishie, Opera Square, Tudu and Kantamanto, creating a platform for engagement, knowledge-sharing and practical business support.
Some topics discussed at ‘SME Connect’ included use of social media for brand promotion, forex trading, easy access to finance, among others.
Speaking at the event, Acting Head-Retail Banking Enoch Adams said the SME Connect initiative is designed to strengthen relationships with SMEs while equipping them with tools to scale their businesses.
“This initiative provides us with an opportunity to connect more closely with you, better understand your business needs and share practical solutions that can help you grow and succeed,” he noted.
He added that the workshop forms part of the bank’s broader strategy to deepen SME engagement and position itself as a trusted partner in the growth journey of businesses.
Mr. Adams highlighted the bank’s range of offerings, including digital payment solutions, business advisory services and access to credit, noting that these interventions are tailored to support enterprise growth and sustainability.
He also referenced a recent health screening exercise organised by the bank at the Ghana National Fire Service station’s forecourt at Makola, describing it as part of FirstBank’s holistic approach to supporting SME clients.
“We believe your health is just as important as the success and growth of your business,” he said.
Also addressing participants, Treasurer-FirstBank Ghana Grace Isaac-Aryee underscored the critical role SMEs play in Ghana’s economy and the bank’s deliberate efforts to go beyond traditional banking.
“Our goal is to empower you with the tools, practical insights and strategic partnerships needed to grow and thrive in today’s dynamic and competitive business environment,” she stated.
She noted that Accra’s central business district remains a vibrant hub of enterprise, driven largely by SMEs whose activities sustain livelihoods and power economic growth.
Providing historical context, Ms. Isaac-Aryee recalled that FirstBank Ghana established its first branch at Makola in 1996 with a strong focus on supporting women entrepreneurs.
“For the past 30 years, we have been here with you providing solutions and we remain committed to empowering your businesses for the next 30 years and beyond,” she said.
She further highlighted the influence of women entrepreneurs within the Makola enclave, noting their role in shaping informal financial systems, fostering mentorship networks and strengthening market resilience.
The workshop focused on addressing key challenges faced by SMEs, including access to finance, cash flow constraints, limited financial literacy and restricted market opportunities. Participants were also taken through insights on foreign exchange trading and its relevance to business growth.
Ms. Isaac-Aryee emphasised that FirstBank’s tailored financial solutions, digital platforms and advisory services are designed to enhance operational efficiency and support informed decision-making among SMEs.
“Growth goes beyond capital; it requires access and the right connections,” she added, pointing to SME Connect as a platform for networking and market exposure.
Both speakers encouraged participants to actively engage in the sessions to maximise benefits of the workshop.
FirstBank Ghana reiterated its commitment to delivering customer-centric solutions and building long-term partnerships anchored on trust, transparency and shared success.
The SME Connect initiative is expected to be rolled out across other business districts as part of the bank’s strategy to strengthen SME resilience and drive inclusive economic growth.
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