Loans, Licences & 5 Services For Business Owners After Govt Launches New Centre

Trade and Investments Ministry Cabinet Secretary (CS) Rebecca Miano on Monday, April 15 launched the Karibu Business Support Centre (KBSC) which aims to provide an all-inclusive approach to entrepreneurs, investors, and traders.

The KBSC offers a wide array of services, including advisory support on investments, manufacturing and trade policies, collection and dissemination of business information, liaison services, and facilitation of business linkages.

"This launch marks a significant step towards enhancing the ease of doing business in the country, underlining the government's commitment to fostering economic growth and prosperity,'' she explained.

Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry, Rebecca Miano speaks during the launch of the Karibu Business Support Centre on April 15, 2024. /REBECCA MIANO

She stressed the importance of creating a conducive environment for business and investment opportunities to flourish, further affirming the government's dedication to streamlining service provision and addressing the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, investors, and traders.

"Our vision for the Karibu Business Support Centre goes beyond its establishment; it embodies our unwavering commitment to facilitating the ease of doing business in Kenya," Miano said.

"Whether you're a visionary entrepreneur with groundbreaking ideas or a seasoned industrialist seeking to expand operations, the KBSC stands ready to simplify and expedite your business journey."

Viral Tea visited the KBSC's official website and highlighted the following services the centre will offer:

Registration and Licensing

KBSC facilitates the registration and licensing processes for business enterprises, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and saving time for entrepreneurs. 

The following registrations and licenses can be facilitated through KBSC:

• Business Permit
• Certificate of incorporation/registration certificate
• Tax compliance services
• Scrap metal licenses
• SEZ license
• EPZ license

Financial Services

Collaborating with government financial institutions, the centre provides information and assistance to businesses seeking financial support for their business ventures. 

The following financial services can be facilitated through KBSC:

• Hustler fund
• Women enterprise fund
• Youth Enterprise Development fund
• Kenya Development Corporation (KDC) debt and equity financing.
• Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE) industrial financing.

Market Access & Networking

Business enterprises, through various KBSC support programs, can benefit from networking opportunities by connecting with other businesses, potential partners, and government agencies to expand their market reach. 

The following services can be facilitated through KBSC:

• KEPROBA’s Nation Branding
• KNTC services
• KEBS standardization marks

Product Development

The KBSC recognizes the importance of product innovation and enhancement for business enterprises to remain competitive in the market.

The following services can be facilitated through KBSC:

• Provision of specialized support in the process of conceptualizing, designing, and developing new products or improving existing ones in collaboration with KIRDI.
• Provision of valuable insights into market trends, consumer preferences, and emerging technologies to inform their product development strategies.
• MSEA product development services
• KIPI intellectual property services

Product Standardization

Ensuring product quality and adherence to standards is vital for business enterprises to gain consumer trust and comply with regulatory requirements. 

KBSC through KEBS will therefore assist business enterprises in understanding and implementing product standardization measures, helping them meet industry benchmarks and achieve certification where applicable. 

“By promoting adherence to quality standards, the centre enhances the market competitiveness of local enterprises, potentially opening up new avenues for partnerships and market access,” KBSC explains.

Linkages To Business Development Opportunities

Business enterprises often require external support and partnerships to scale their operations and access new opportunities. 

KBSC will act as a facilitator, establishing linkages between enterprises and various business development opportunities. These opportunities may include:

• Incubation Programs: Connect entrepreneurs with business incubators to nurture and accelerate their growth.
• Financing Options: Providing information on available financing options, grants, and loans to support business expansion.
• Market Access: Creating linkages with potential markets, both locally and within the region, to broaden the reach of enterprises.
• Business Partnerships: Facilitating collaborations and partnerships with other businesses, fostering synergies and mutual growth.

Liaison Services

KBSC provides liaison services to expedite the administrative procedures that investors and businesses may require to operate or set up shop in Kenya. Among them include:

• EPZA services
• SEZA services
• KenInvest services
• Business complaint resolution services
• Government business regulations and information services
• Policy advocacy services

Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry, Rebecca Miano and other dignitaries during the launch of the Karibu Business Support Centre on April 15, 2024. /REBECCA MIANO