FirstBank Ghana Launches SME Workshops to Empower Entrepreneurs

Small business owners in Accra just got a major boost from a bank that's been their neighbor for nearly three decades.

FirstBank Ghana launched its first SME Connect Workshop on April 16, bringing together entrepreneurs, industry experts, and bank officials in the heart of Accra's bustling Central Business District. The free event aimed to equip small and medium business owners with practical tools to grow their companies.

The location wasn't random. Makola and its surrounding areas form the beating heart of SME activity in Accra, and FirstBank has been there since opening its first branch on November 1, 1996. For 30 years, the bank has focused on serving women entrepreneurs and small businesses in the area.

"This initiative is designed to engage, empower and support the growth of SMEs across Ghana," said Enoch Adams, Acting Head of Retail Banking at FirstBank Ghana. The workshop gave the bank a chance to better understand customer needs while sharing solutions to help businesses succeed.

Experts from the National Banking College trained participants on making their businesses "finance-ready" by registering properly, keeping good records, and separating personal finances from business accounts. They explained what banks actually look for when reviewing loan applications, helping entrepreneurs plan ahead instead of facing rejection.

Business owners also learned about managing foreign exchange impacts, building strong brands, and using social media effectively. The advice was practical: stay consistent, maintain quality, and treat customers with respect to build lasting trust.

Why This Inspires

The most powerful part of the workshop came when customers shared honest feedback. Some praised the bank's services, while others raised concerns about delayed transaction alerts and slow transfers. Instead of getting defensive, Deputy Managing Director Osahon E. Ogieva listened carefully and promised improvements.

Adams acknowledged the gap between what the bank thought it was delivering and what customers actually needed. "Listening to your questions tells me that perhaps there is much more we can do for you than we are doing," he said. "While we think we are serving you well, there is still room for improvement."

The bank also recently organized a health screening at Makola, showing they care about their customers' wellbeing beyond just business success. "Your health is just as important as the growth of your business," Adams explained.

FirstBank Ghana is proving that real partnership means showing up, listening hard, and committing to do better.