ELDORET, Kenya, April 15 – More than 100 entrepreneurs, policymakers, and industry players gathered in Eldoret for a mentorship-focused forum aimed at accelerating growth among women- and youth-led businesses.
The “Biashara Pawa Dialogue Series: The Power of Mentoring in Entrepreneurship,” held at EldoHub, brought together stakeholders to address structural barriers facing enterprises in sectors such as manufacturing, agribusiness, technology, green economy, and water and sanitation.
The dialogue focused on challenges including limited access to finance, markets, and business development support, particularly for startups operating outside major urban centres.
EldoHub Founder and Executive Director Chepkemoi Magdaline said partnerships are key to expanding opportunities for grassroots entrepreneurs.
“We hope to encourage collaboration and innovation through the partnerships we have built with SNV, the government, and the entrepreneurial ecosystem,” she said, noting the role of innovation hubs in mentorship, digital inclusion, and skills development.
The event brought together institutions including the Uasin Gishu County Government, Micro and Small Enterprise Authority, Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations, and Responsible Business Consulting.
SNV representatives highlighted mentorship as a key driver of enterprise success.
“A mentor may not solve every challenge but can guide entrepreneurs to think critically and make better decisions,” said Nduta Ndirangu of SNV. “When entrepreneurs grow, their communities and economies flourish.”
Nelson Ajala, Multi-Country Program Manager for IYBA-SEED at SNV, said the programme is focused on strengthening enterprise support systems tailored for women and youth.
A key outcome of the forum was the creation of sector-specific learning labs, where entrepreneurs engaged in peer-to-peer sessions on market validation, financial literacy, compliance, and customer retention.
The event also showcased green enterprises under the IYBA-SEED programme, highlighting startups advancing sustainability and circular economy solutions.
Organisers said the initiative connected over 100 founders to mentorship, networks, and support systems, reinforcing Eldoret’s growing role as a regional hub for innovation and enterprise development.
