Kisumu City is gearing up to host the Business Ecosystems Summit 2025, a major gathering that will bring together over 1,000 entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and development partners to strengthen Kenya’s SME sector and drive regional business collaboration.
According to Jeanette Oromo, CEO of The IMC People the organisers of the Business Ecosystems Summit 2025 this year’s edition is guided by a strong commitment to building a thriving and interconnected business landscape.
“We aim to build stronger and more connected business ecosystems that drive sustainable growth,” said Ms. Oromo. “SMEs are the lifeblood of our economy, and supporting them is vital to Kenya’s and Africa’s prosperity. The Business Ecosystems Summit 2025 will help entrepreneurs access the right partnerships, financing, and expertise to thrive in competitive markets.”
Kenya is home to more than 7.4 million MSMEs, according to the World Bank, yet many still struggle with limited access to finance, markets, and networks. The Business Ecosystems Summit 2025 aims to bridge these gaps by linking entrepreneurs with partners and resources that enable long-term business growth.
Rescheduled earlier this year, the Summit returns with a renewed focus on empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through opportunities in markets, financing, and innovation.
It will feature three days of exhibitions, plenary sessions, and deal-making forums, drawing participation from both local and international business leaders.
Kisumu County Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, whose administration is hosting the event, said the city is ready to showcase its capacity as a leading Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) destination.
“Kisumu is honoured to host the second edition of the Business Ecosystems Summit 2025. Our city has grown into a regional hub for innovation, trade, and tourism, making it the perfect setting for business growth and opportunity,” said Prof. Nyong’o.
The Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB), the official Summit partner, sees the event as a chance to amplify the bloc’s potential. According to Victor Nyagaya, LREB CEO, the Summit underscores how counties can collaborate to attract investment and unlock regional value chains.
“The Lake Region counties share a common vision to unlock our vast economic potential through joint planning and sustainable financing,” said Mr. Nyagaya. “The Business Ecosystems Summit 2025 offers a platform to showcase unity in purpose and turn the lake region into an economic powerhouse.”
This year’s edition will cover key sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, finance, infrastructure, technology, climate action, automotive, education, and construction. Organisers expect more than 10,000 daily visitors to the exhibitors’ marketplace and around 900 delegates, catalysing multi-million-dollar investments across various industries.
The first edition of the Summit, held in 2023, attracted 9,000 attendees, participation from eight embassies, and profiled over USD 93 million in investor commitments.
With its return, the Business Ecosystems Summit 2025 is positioning Kisumu and Kenya as a growing hub for regional business growth, innovation, and collaboration.
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