FNB Namibia Empowers SMEs at Windhoek Business Summit

FNB Namibia’s Commitment to Enterprise Development Shines at 2025 Business Summit

FNB Namibia has once again demonstrated its dedication to enterprise development by actively supporting the 2025 City of Windhoek Business Summit. This significant event, centered around the theme “Building Sustainable SMEs in a Thriving Economy,” brought together influential leaders from both the public and private sectors, as well as a wide array of entrepreneurs.

During the summit, Dino Ballotti, Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, stressed the urgent need to change the perception of entrepreneurship across the country. He highlighted that while entrepreneurship is often seen as a last resort, it should be encouraged for its potential to create scalable businesses that generate jobs and drive economic growth.

“Entrepreneurship remains taboo in Namibia. We need to encourage entrepreneurship not just out of necessity or for survival, but to foster the growth of businesses that are scalable and capable of creating jobs. That’s how we build sustainability and contribute meaningfully to a thriving economy.”

Connie-Marlene Theyse, Head of Enterprise Banking High Touch and Mid Corporate at FNB Namibia, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the growing importance of inclusive entrepreneurship in emerging economies. She pointed out that by the end of 2025, 60% of emerging markets will be driven by microeconomic enterprises, with 58% led by women. In Namibia, women lead over 70% of these enterprises, marking a new era for Namibian entrepreneurship.

“This is evidence that Namibian entrepreneurship has entered a new era. What was once too often overlooked is now being recognized as a powerful driver of innovation, job creation, and national pride. Whether starting with a bold vision or a small spark of an idea, Namibian entrepreneurs are building businesses that scale, inspire, and lead.”

FNB Namibia continues to align its business strategy with national development priorities, focusing on empowering local entrepreneurs and supporting the long-term sustainability of the SME sector. Theyse emphasized that supporting entrepreneurship is a core component of the bank’s growth strategy.

“We view SMEs as a key driver of economic expansion and job creation,” said Theyse. “Our involvement in initiatives like the Business Summit reflects our commitment to actively contributing to a stronger, more inclusive economy.”

The summit featured prominent speakers, including entrepreneur and media icon Connie Ferguson, and brought together representatives from institutions such as BIPA, DBN, the City of Windhoek, and FNB Namibia. Discussions focused on innovation, access to finance, regulatory alignment, and the tools needed for SMEs to scale.

Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Ferguson spoke about the power of authenticity and staying rooted in one’s purpose. She shared insights on the importance of owning one’s story and understanding one’s purpose to navigate challenges effectively.

“As an African entrepreneur, it is important to own your story. Your ‘why’ should be clear, because when you understand your purpose, it becomes easier to navigate the challenges. Your unique voice is what will set you apart in a crowded marketplace. Know your value, own your story, and market what makes you different.”

Nesdha De Jongh, SME Sub-Segment Head at FNB Namibia, reinforced the bank’s long-term commitment to supporting entrepreneurs. He noted that the summit reflected what is possible when all stakeholders align.

“It’s not just about business growth—it’s about creating an environment where entrepreneurship can thrive and meaningfully contribute to Namibia’s broader development goals.”

He further explained that the bank’s approach goes beyond traditional financial services. “Business growth doesn’t happen in isolation—it requires knowledge, networks, and consistent support. We aim to walk alongside entrepreneurs, equipping them with practical tools and resources to help them move from start-up to scale-up.”

Martin Nankela, Founder of the Business Summit Namibia, thanked FNB Namibia and the City of Windhoek for partnering with their vision. He emphasized the shared crisis of unemployment and the need for collective action.

“Unemployment is our shared crisis. It affects every home, every community, every industry and the truth is, we cannot defeat it alone. It will take entrepreneurs, corporates, policy makers, banks, and the government to come together, play their part to fight this shared war.”

He encouraged entrepreneurs to learn from the stories and experiences shared at the summit and to think beyond survival. “We must create, start, and build businesses that employ others so we can collectively move forward. So, start where you are and start with what you have.”

With over 250 participants, the 2025 City of Windhoek Business Summit was one of the most well-attended SME-focused gatherings to date, laying the groundwork for what is envisioned to become a flagship annual event. As FNB Namibia continues to champion innovation and inclusivity in enterprise development, the summit stands as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when vision is matched with action.