THE MICRO & SMALL ENTERPRISES SMEs CONFERENCE 2026

30 September, 2026 • The University of Nairobi • Main Campus • Chandaria Center for Performing Arts

The Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Conference 2026

Accelerating Business Growth Through Industry – Academia Collaboration

About the SMEs Conference

Micro, Small and Medium Entrepreneurs (MSMEs) contribute approximately 30-40% of the Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The sector, which includes 7.4 million enterprises, acts as the backbone of the economy and is the primary driver of job creation, employing over 15 million of the total 18 million (80%) of Kenya’s workforce. Inspite of the great opportunities this sector presents, it is also faced with significant challenges. Over 75% of MSMEs created fail by year 2 with other challenges including lack of capital, markets and skills.
I Choose Life-Africa, under the 1 million youth empowerment program has initiated a Business Development program that runs up to 2028. The program targets youth led Businees and with over 13 universities to provide academic led research solutions to the enterprises while at the same time the students are able to solve real world solution that also contribute to their academic qualifications.

Registration Tracks:

  • Finance, Capital & Investment
  • Market Acquisition, retention & growth
  • Adopting AI and Technology for business growth and efficiency
  • Talent & Human Resource acquisition with safeguarding
  • Industry and Academia collaboration
  • Kenya Entrepreneurship Ecosystem strengthening

Schedule Snapshot

Time Morning Afternoon
Day 1 • 22 Jan Opening Keynote • ESG Readiness Workshops + Networking
Day 2 • 23 Jan E-Mobility Launch • Panels Business Pitch Forum
Day 3 • 24 Jan Company Visits Konza Innovation Tour
Day 4 • 25 Jan Carbon Credits + ESG Industry Workshops
Day 5 • 26 Jan Nairobi National Park Safari Closing Plenary