Stanbic Bank Ghana, in partnership with PrymeAds, has launched a digital skill training programme for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to help them remain competitive and expand their market reach in an increasingly digital economy.

The initiative, delivered through the Stanbic Business Incubator, was designed to equip entrepreneurs with practical skills in digital marketing, content creation, direct marketing and data analytics, in response to growing demand from businesses seeking to strengthen their online presence.

The Head of Business Development at Stanbic Bank Ghana, Safoa Appietu-Ankrah, said the programme was introduced following consistent feedback from SME operators across the country who needed hands-on support to navigate the digital space effectively.

She said the bank’s engagements with SMEs, particularly through its SME clinics, had revealed a widening skills gap among entrepreneurs eager to adopt digital tools but lacking the technical know-how to do so.

“In today’s business environment, digital transformation is no longer optional, and SMEs have to build the capacity to connect with customers and grow through digital platforms,” she said.

She explained that the training programme formed part of the bank’s quarterly interventions aimed at addressing the evolving needs of SMEs and ensuring that businesses remained resilient amid changing market conditions.

According to her, the programme prioritised practical learning to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application, enabling participants to immediately apply the skills acquired to their businesses.

She said the training also aimed at helping SMEs build stronger digital brands and improve customer engagement, which had become critical in driving growth, particularly for businesses operating in retail, agriculture and light manufacturing.

She added that Stanbic Bank viewed digital transformation as a key pillar for supporting long-term business sustainability, noting that improved digital capabilities would enhance productivity and competitiveness across the SME sector.

Support for women and youth

Mrs Appietu-Ankrah said inclusivity remained a key focus of the initiative, particularly for women- and youth-led enterprises that often faced barriers in accessing skills, networks and growth opportunities.

She said the programme was structured to create opportunities for such groups to strengthen their digital presence and scale their businesses with confidence.

“At the Stanbic Business Incubator, we remained committed to supporting innovation and ensuring that women and young entrepreneurs were not left behind in the digital economy,” she said.