FirstBank Ghana has launched the 2024 edition of its SME Fair at the Atomic Junction Branch, creating an exceptional platform for its Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) customers to showcase their products and services.

This initiative reinforces the Bank’s commitment to empowering Ghana’s SME sector, a critical driver of the country’s economic growth.

The SME Fair will be held in two phases, with the first part running from October 28 to November 1 at the Atomic Junction Branch, and the second part from November 4 to November 8 coming off simultaneously at the Santa Maria, Dansoman, Spintex 1, and Tema Community 1 branches.

The FirstBank SME Fair offers participating businesses a venue to exhibit and sell their products while also fostering networking opportunities. Entrepreneurs and visitors alike will benefit from the collaborative atmosphere, designed to facilitate connections, inspire partnerships, and drive innovation among SMEs across various industries.

In addition to showcasing products, FirstBank Ghana has incorporated business advisory services and training sessions into the fair. These sessions aim to address some of the financial challenges facing SMEs, including access to capital, financial management, and market expansion. Throughout the event, FirstBank’s experienced advisors will provide participants with personalised support to enhance their business strategies and equip them for sustainable growth.

Commenting on the SME Fair, the Managing Director and Chief Executive of FirstBank Ghana, Mr. Victor Yaw Asante, said, “Our SME Fair exemplifies FirstBank Ghana’s dedication to supporting the growth and success of Ghanaian SMEs. At FirstBank, we understand the essential role SMEs play in our economy, and by giving them this platform, we are creating opportunities for visibility, networking, and skill-building that drive economic growth. As a Bank, we are committed to supporting local businesses not just with financial products but as a reliable partner in their journey to success.”

In addition to hosting the SME Fair, FirstBank Ghana is honoured to be a selected partner for the Ghanaian government’s YouStart program. This initiative, aimed at strengthening Ghana’s SME ecosystem, provides entrepreneurs with essential resources, including access to finance, capacity building, market access, and business support services. FirstBank’s role in the YouStart program reflects its longstanding dedication to advancing SME interests in Ghana and aligns with national goals for economic empowerment and job creation.

Mr. Asante, also commenting on the Bank’s role in YouStart, said, “Our role in the YouStart program reaffirms our commitment to empowering SMEs with the tools they need to thrive. Through this program and our own offerings, FirstBank is providing entrepreneurs with financial tools, business advisory services, and support tailored to their unique needs. We see ourselves not only as a bank but as a strategic partner, helping SMEs overcome growth barriers and realize their full potential.”

FirstBank Ghana’s comprehensive SME offerings include financing solutions customized for SME needs, as well as educational resources designed to strengthen business acumen and support sustainable growth. These products and services are crafted to address the challenges unique to the SME sector, ensuring FirstBank’s clients are equipped to succeed in today’s competitive market.

With the SME Fair and its involvement in the YouStart program, FirstBank Ghana reaffirms its commitment to building a prosperous future for Ghanaian businesses. Entrepreneurs and customers alike are encouraged to attend the fair, take advantage of the resources provided, and join in FirstBank’s mission of fostering growth and opportunity for all.

FirstBank Ghana is part of the First Bank Group of Nigeria Limited, which is celebrating its 130th anniversary this year. The group operates across several countries, including the UK, DRC, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Gambia, and Senegal.