Telecommunications leader MTN Ghana has intensified efforts to support the growth and sustainability of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through a comprehensive package of digital tools, access to credit, and structured training programmes aimed at transforming businesses across the country.
The initiative, delivered under the company’s flagship SME Accelerate Programme, has already benefited more than 900 SMEs, equipping them with the skills, technology, and financial access needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive and digitalised business environment.
Speaking at an SME Business Clinic held in Kumasi, Senior Manager for SME Sales at MTN Ghana, Abubakri Sadick Mohammed, explained that the programme has evolved significantly since its introduction in 2024. Originally designed as a one-month campaign, it has now been expanded into a year-long intervention following strong demand from businesses seeking continuous support.
According to him, the expansion reflects MTN Ghana’s commitment to addressing key challenges faced by SMEs, including low levels of digital adoption, limited market visibility, and restricted access to financing—issues that continue to impede business growth and innovation.
“Digitisation is no longer optional for businesses that want to grow and remain competitive. SMEs must embrace technology to improve efficiency, expand their reach, and unlock new opportunities,” he emphasised.
To bridge the digital gap, MTN Ghana is providing SMEs with innovative tools that enable them to create websites, promote their products and services online, and connect with a broader customer base beyond their immediate geographical locations. These digital solutions are designed to enhance brand visibility and improve market access both locally and internationally.
In addition to digital empowerment, the programme integrates mobile money and fintech solutions to facilitate access to credit. By leveraging digital transaction records, SMEs are able to build financial credibility, making it easier for them to secure loans and scale their operations.
As part of efforts to ensure long-term impact, MTN Ghana has partnered with SMEGA Africa to provide post-training monitoring and support. The organisation tracks the progress of participating businesses, ensuring that knowledge acquired during training is effectively applied to improve performance and productivity.
The programme also offers continuous mentorship through MTN Ghana’s network of key account managers, who provide tailored guidance and advisory services to SMEs across the country.
A major highlight of the initiative is the Mini MBA programme, organised in collaboration with the Nova School of Business. The 13-week course is designed to equip selected entrepreneurs with advanced business management and leadership skills. Following a successful pilot phase, MTN Ghana plans to scale up participation from about 50 beneficiaries last year to 150 in 2026.
Mr Mohammed further encouraged SME operators to strengthen their record-keeping and financial management systems, noting that proper documentation remains a critical factor in accessing funding and sustaining business growth.
He also pointed to the untapped potential of locally manufactured goods, stressing that while many Ghanaian products are of high quality, they often lack the visibility needed to compete on international platforms.
“Local products have great potential, but without adequate promotion and digital presence, they remain largely unknown beyond our borders. SMEs must leverage digital tools to reach wider markets and maximise their potential,” he advised.
Participants who have benefited from the programme expressed appreciation for the initiative, highlighting improvements in areas such as branding, packaging, and overall business operations. Many indicated that the knowledge and support received would enable them to expand their businesses and create employment opportunities.
The SME Accelerate Programme continues to position MTN Ghana as a key partner in national development, reinforcing its role in empowering entrepreneurs, driving innovation, and strengthening the SME sector as a critical pillar of Ghana’s economic growth.
