ESME open to all entrepreneurs

SMALL and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a vital role in Namibia’s economy, with one in five people being employed in the SME sector.

Not only do SMEs contribute over 12% to the gross domestic product, but they also raise the standard of living of many Namibians, which helps alleviate poverty. SMEs also empower women and the youth within the community.

Bank Windhoek has experienced that in addition to financing, the major need of start-ups and small and medium businesses is mentoring. Mentorship guides SMEs on how to run a successful and sustainable business.

As an SME customer, Bank Windhoek’s mentorship programme is available to successful SME finance applicants. This is a ten-month targeted programme directed at helping the SME build capacity by improving business management skills. The mentors focus on assisting the business to improve in areas such as bookkeeping, pricing strategies, marketing, human resources management and other practical business skills.

“Bank Windhoek’s ESME division’s ultimate goal is to see an increased number of small and medium enterprises grow into sustainable businesses, and to provide longevity,” said Mbo Luvindao, manager at the bank’s emerging small and medium enterprises, specialist finance division.

Often, ESME financing is viewed as difficult to apply for, but with Bank Windhoek’s one-stop service, prospective customers will not only receive the best advice in financing their businesses, but also open transactional accounts for as little as N$200.

“We help entrepreneurs realise their dream of owning a business. We do this by providing financing to both start-ups and existing businesses. Bank Windhoek’s ESME finance branch offers a variety of products that are tailor-made for small and medium enterprises. These products range from machinery, vehicle and equipment finance, to commercial property financing and a variety of investment and savings accounts. We also offer business cheque and transaction accounts which satisfy the daily transaction needs of businesses, while providing them with access to a Visa debit card, internet banking and possible credit facilities,” said Luvindao.

“No matter how small your business, we will help you achieve new heights with all-inclusive services.”

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