Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) today convened a panel of four expert judges at KEPSA Offices to evaluate submissions for the highly anticipated 2025 Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) Enablers Awards. This marks a critical milestone in the awards process, as shortlisted candidates underwent rigorous evaluation in preparation for the winners announcement during the KEPSA SME Conference, Exhibition, and Awards scheduled for June 26th - 27th, 2025 at Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD).

The Enablers Awards seeks to recognize and celebrate organizations that have demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment to supporting the growth, development, and success of SMEs across various sectors. The awards aim to spotlight enablers that are bridging market gaps, driving innovation, and fostering inclusive growth for small and medium enterprises.

Each category was assessed on specific, transparent criteria tailored to the unique goals of the award. Entries under Digital Market Enabler Champion category were evaluated for their ability to leverage technology to enhance market access for SMEs, particularly among underserved segments. Judges looked for digital innovations that demonstrated strong relevance and measurable impact in the SME ecosystem. Key considerations included the adoption rate and reach of the digital solution, its ease of use, affordability, and accessibility for users. Additionally, scalability across different regions or sectors and the long-term sustainability of the solution were examined. Real-life success stories and user testimonials played a vital role in showcasing the effectiveness and transformative power of each innovation.

The Overall Market Access Enabler Champion category focused on organizations that have significantly contributed to expanding market opportunities for SMEs. Judges assessed each submission's ability to create effective linkages to local, regional, or global markets. They also considered the diversity of sectors served and the level of inclusion extended to marginalized business groups. Supporting services such as logistics, training, certification, or marketing were additional factors in the evaluation. Tangible results—such as increased sales, exports, or successful partnerships—helped demonstrate the practical impact of the interventions. Innovation in breaking market access barriers was a critical element that set outstanding submissions apart.

Submissions in the Inclusivity and Sustainability Market Access Champion category were judged based on their commitment to inclusive and sustainable growth. Judges examined how well the initiatives targeted the inclusion of women, youth, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized communities. Environmental sustainability was a key criterion, focusing on the integration of eco-friendly or climate-smart practices within market access strategies. Evidence of positive social outcomes, such as improved livelihoods or community development, strengthened each entry’s case. Additionally, the long-term sustainability of the initiative, its funding model, and the ability to replicate it across sectors or regions, especially through strong partnerships, were considered crucial for recognition.

The winners in each category will be announced during the KEPSA SME Conference  on June 27th, and will benefit from KEPSA’s strategic post-event marketing and  visibility campaign. This includes showcasing their work across media platforms and facilitating engagement with key stakeholders in the business ecosystem.