I&M Bank has announced a strategic partnership with B Lab Africa to launch the Resilient Sustainable Business (RSB) programme, a nine‑week blended learning initiative designed to help Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) embed environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices into their operations and build resilient, future‑ready business models.
Targeting Growth‑Stage Enterprises
The March 2026 cohort will focus on established SMEs with annual revenues between KES 6 million and KES 120 million and teams of 10 to 100 employees. These are firms that have moved beyond proof of concept and are scaling operations, expanding market reach, and strengthening internal infrastructure.
To lower barriers to entry, I&M Bank will sponsor 80% of the programme cost (USD 240) per participant, leaving SMEs to contribute the remaining 20% (USD 60).
Curriculum Designed for Impact
The RSB programme blends theory with practical application, offering expert‑led modules across six key areas:
- Impact Measurement & Management using the B Impact Assessment.
- High‑Performance Culture to build resilient teams.
- Sustainable Supply Chains integrating ethical practices.
- Responsible Branding & Marketing aligned with ESG goals.
- Financing Sustainable Practices to access ESG‑aligned capital.
- Impact Selling to convert purpose into profit.
Participants will also benefit from peer networking, one‑on‑one coaching, and access to case studies across Kenya, South Africa, Mauritius, and Nigeria.
Focus on High‑Impact Sectors
The programme prioritises industries central to Africa’s sustainable growth and energy transition:
- Manufacturing
- Agri‑Tech
- Circular Economy
- Green Energy
- Sustainable Consumer Brands
Strategic Importance for SMEs
Speaking at the launch, Shameer Patel, Director of Retail & Business Banking at I&M Bank, said:
“Through this collaboration, we are intentionally investing in building stronger, more resilient SMEs that are equipped to adapt to evolving market dynamics and create sustainable long‑term value.”
B Lab Africa emphasised that the initiative aims to nurture a new generation of African businesses that measure success not only by financial returns but also by clear environmental and social impact.
By sponsoring the majority of programme costs and embedding ESG into SME operations, I&M Bank and B Lab Africa are positioning SMEs as drivers of Africa’s sustainable economic transformation. The partnership reflects a broader shift in African markets, where resilience, sustainability, and inclusive growth are becoming central to competitiveness and long‑term prosperity.
