The inaugural She’s Next Kenya Grant Competition, a program from Visa designed to empower women-owned businesses, has announced its winners! Busu Naturals, a Kenyan SME creating natural skincare products for sensitive skin, has been named the grand prize winner, taking home a KES 2.5 million grant.
Empowering Women, Boosting the Economy
“We are proud to recognize these SMEs who have exhibited remarkable innovation, resilience and vision,” said Eva Ngigi-Sarwari, Visa Kenya Country Manager. The competition attracted over 2,300 entries, showcasing a wealth of innovative ideas from Kenyan businesses. The grant program goes beyond just funding, offering mentorship and training to equip these businesses for continued success.
Busu Naturals: Rooted in Tradition, Reaching New Heights
Busu Naturals, led by CEO Emma Omany, focuses on creating high-quality skincare products using local botanicals and traditional beauty practices. Their win validates their approach and provides a significant boost to their growth plans. “The support we will get through this grant and training will help us grow our capacity and expand our market reach,” said Omany. She also highlighted the impact on their value chain, creating opportunities for women and youth.
Celebrating Innovation: Other Winners Take Home Prizes
While Busu Naturals claimed the top spot, other businesses were recognized for their contributions. Timao Group (recycled plastic building materials), Code with Kids (STEM education for underprivileged youth), Crafts with Meaning (artisanal home decor), and Cladfy (micro-loans for informal businesses) all received grants in recognition of their innovative solutions.
A Bright Future for Kenyan Businesses
The She’s Next Kenya Grant Competition has shone a light on the talent and potential of Kenyan women-owned businesses. With financial support, mentorship, and training, these businesses are poised to make a significant impact on the Kenyan economy and beyond.
