Techiman hosted a bustling pitch competition as the MTN‑SME Support Programme entered its fourth year, drawing roughly 300 local entrepreneurs eager to secure a place among the 150 finalists who will receive further funding and training.
The five‑year initiative, a joint effort by the MTN Foundation and the Innohub Foundation, has already backed 453 SMEs across nine regions, disbursing GH¢5 million in capital that has created 37 jobs and lifted participating businesses’ revenue from GH¢25.1 million to GH¢29.9 million – a 19 % increase.
Cynthia Mills, Economic Empowerment Adviser at the MTN Foundation, explained the programme’s goal: “The purpose of the programme is to ensure that we identify businesses that are very viable, that can create jobs and also help grow the economy. We are here in Bono East to listen to them and ensure that we select the best to support.”
While cash injections are vital, the programme’s leaders stress that capacity building is the real catalyst. The selection process demands clear evidence of market insight, growth potential and sustainable business models.
“Beyond the funding, we are here to provide the needed training and capacity building. It’s not just about the money; we want to ensure these beneficiaries have the skills to sustain their growth,”Gyasi Juliet Yayra, Programme Lead at Innohub, added.
The pitches spanned a wide array of sectors, from agriculture and food processing to trading, manufacturing and services, underscoring the programme’s inclusive mandate. Judge Fafa Befoe highlighted agribusiness proposals that tackle post‑harvest losses, noting their potential to address critical regional challenges.
Participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity, citing the support as key to scaling operations and creating jobs in their communities. The competition’s outcome will shape the next wave of business development, coaching and financial aid for the selected SMEs.
As the event progresses, the message is clear: with corporate backing and a focus on inclusive growth, the SME landscape in Bono, Bono East and Ahafo is poised to drive significant employment and economic recovery.
