MTN Ghana has launched the 2026 edition of its SME Accelerate programme to support the growth and digital development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana.

The year-long programme was launched at MTN House on Friday, March 13, 2026. The event brought together policymakers, industry representatives, and entrepreneurs to discuss ways to strengthen the SME sector and expand business opportunities.

In her welcome address, the Chief Enterprise Officer of MTN Ghana, Angela Mensah-Poku, described SMEs as an important part of Ghana’s economy. She said that while MTN has traditionally provided connectivity services to businesses, it is now expanding its role to include business support initiatives.

She explained that the SME Accelerate programme is intended to provide entrepreneurs with tools, training, and partnerships to improve their operations in a digital business environment.

Mensah-Poku announced that this year’s programme will include SME regional clinics to make training more accessible to entrepreneurs across the country. These clinics will be held in Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, and Takoradi, and will cover areas such as digital tools, financial management, and business mentorship.

She added that the initiative is part of MTN Ghana’s long-standing presence in the country and its engagement with local businesses.

In a video message, the Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, spoke about the role of SMEs in national development and the challenges they face. He noted that MTN operates across connectivity, financial services, and data infrastructure, and said the company aims to support SME growth through technology and improved business systems.

The Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment, George Opare Addo, described the programme as a useful platform for supporting young entrepreneurs. He said that while government provides infrastructure and regulation, the private sector plays a key role in business development.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Enterprises Agency (GEA), Margaret Ansei, also commented on the initiative, describing it as a structured private-sector programme that can support SME growth. She noted that the growth of SMEs can have wider economic and social effects.

Other attendees included Seth Akomani, a representative from UNDP; the President of Nova Business School Africa, Prof. Mathew Tsamenyi; SME partners; and other stakeholders.

Now in its third edition, the SME Accelerate programme is a year-long initiative aimed at supporting SMEs across Ghana. Activities planned for this year include regional SME clinics, business webinars, exhibitions, and networking events. The programme will also include initiatives focused on women entrepreneurs, youth-led businesses, family-owned enterprises, and businesses run by persons with disabilities.