Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly looking beyond traditional bank financing and turning to strategic partnerships, investors and business networks to fuel growth as high borrowing costs and tighter lending conditions make credit harder to access.
The shift comes as more than 1,000 entrepreneurs, investors, corporate executives and innovators are expected to gather in Nairobi on September 11 for a business networking event aimed at connecting companies with new customers, investors and collaborators.
The BNI Nairobi South Business & Innovation Expo 2026, promises to strengthen Nairobi's position as a regional centre for entrepreneurship, innovation and investment at a time when businesses across East Africa
For many small businesses, the challenge is no longer simply accessing capital but finding sustainable ways to grow without relying heavily on expensive loans. Industry players say referrals, partnerships and business matchmaking are becoming valuable alternatives as firms seek to increase sales, enter new markets and reduce customer acquisition costs.
"In today's business environment, growth is increasingly driven by referrals, collaboration and strategic partnerships. The Expo is designed to create an environment where decision-makers can meet, exchange ideas, discover opportunities and build relationships that generate real business value, both nationally and regionally," said BNI Nairobi South executive director Perminus Kariuki.
Kenya's SME sector contributes significantly to employment and economic activity but continues to face persistent financing constraints. Rising interest rates over the past two years, cautious lending by financial institutions and increased operating costs have forced many businesses to postpone expansion plans or seek alternative ways of growing.
Against this backdrop, networking platforms are increasingly being viewed not just as marketing opportunities but as avenues for securing strategic partnerships, attracting investors and winning new business.
According to BNI Global, its members generated more than USD 21.3 billion (about Sh2.8 trillion) in business revenue through referrals in 2024, highlighting the growing commercial value of trust-based business networks.
Organisers say this year's expo will bring together businesses from technology, finance, manufacturing, real estate, professional services and trade, creating opportunities for companies to build commercial relationships across multiple industries.
The event will feature more than 40 exhibitors showcasing products and innovations alongside keynote addresses, expert panel discussions, live product demonstrations and structured business matchmaking sessions designed to connect entrepreneurs with potential clients, suppliers and investors.
One of the key discussions will focus on how businesses can transform professional relationships into revenue-generating opportunities.
According BNI director Antony Njenga, the aim of this expo is to deliver real business outcomes.
"Our theme Accelerate, Innovate, Lead reflects the need for businesses to leverage referrals for growth, embrace innovation to navigate changing market conditions and build leadership that fosters trust."
