The Kenya SMEs Association was formed out of a realization that severe problems were being faced by the SME sector in Kenya, which were not being addressed due to the lack of a strong representative organization. While several organizations claim to represent SMEs, most of these in reality is focused on micro-enterprises. They have also failed to establish themselves visibly and roll out programs
that address the present nagging issues faced by the sector. At the other end of the scale, large business representative groups have likewise claimed to represent SMEs, but in reality, have focused on the needs of big business. Their membership fees are also discriminatory in this respect, as small-scale enterprises cannot afford them. The SME Association of Kenya is therefore meant to cover this middle ground. It is a fact that SMEs contribute at least 50% of GDP in developing and developed economies. The Association, therefore, aims to ensure that SMEs contribute their 50% plus to Kenya's economy and that they grow to become large enterprises, to ensure the country's economic prosperity. The Association offers its members several benefits, including raising capital, creating markets, training, and developing and teaching business best practices. It also acts as a focal point for lobbying and advocacy activity for the SME sector. Each sub-committee focuses on a particular aspect of SME activity and is manned by specialist entrepreneurs in the particular field. Thus, the Association can achieve broad yet specialized coverage of all areas of concern to SMEs. Vision
The vision of the Association is to advance the interests of SMEs and entrepreneurs involved in the running of SMEs. This vision shall be achieved, inter alia, through the following activities:
