CAPITALISE is an initiative by Bentsi-Enchill, Letsa & Ankomah to empower Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana, particularly those championing innovative and client-driven solutions, with the necessary knowledge to navigate the complexities of the investment landscape and secure funding successfully. This project will provide an in-depth overview of the lifespan of SMEs including the best options for setting up for various kinds of businesses, compliance and regulatory obligations, as applicable, legal documentation for various investment options, affordable investment options/products and several other relevant legal and commercial realities of doing business in Ghana.

Few SMEs pursue financing opportunities necessary to scale their business and even fewer meet the requirements of investors. Many SMEs have cited access to legal support and availability of affordable financing options as impediments to scaling their businesses. At the same time, funders and investors have indicated that many SMEs and their founders have a low appreciation of the peculiar requirements for financing and therefore do not meet the governance, legal or regulatory requirements for investment.

As legal advisers, some of the gaps we have identified in our dealings with SMEs include:

(a)inadequate knowledge of the financing opportunities available to SMEs;

(b)limited access to affordable financing options;

(c)lack of appreciation of governance and compliance expectations of investors;

(d)poor appreciation of ways in which adequate financing can scale an SME;

(e)low awareness of the legal and compliance requirements for companies in Ghana; and

(f)lack of understanding of the legal documentation for the various forms of financing.

To help close these gaps and better prepare SMEs for investment, the CAPITALISE Project combines legal insight, practical guidance, and investor engagement through a structured cohort programme to help SMEs strengthen their governance structures, understand legal and compliance requirements, and position themselves to meet investor expectations and secure the right type of capital.

Project Overview

In our CAPITALISE Project, selected businesses will join a cohort programme and engage in in-person events and get access to curated content to support critical decision-making over a 6-8 week period. The in-person events will feature keynote speakers, resource personnel, investor sessions, and a pitch session in the final week. These interactive sessions will foster discussions and provide a comprehensive dialogue on capital-raising options, insights on improving corporate governance and investor readiness.

Our internal speakers will offer legal education on the implications and criteria for raising capital and key insights on corporate governance. The selection to join a cohort will involve pre-registration by the businesses and a review of the information submitted during the registration and selection.

Selection Criteria

1. Business Profile & Stage

Must be a registered SME operating in Ghana.
Should be in the early to growth stage (i.e. already operational with a clear product or service offering).
Must have a scalable business model with potential for growth and investment.

2. Industry & Innovation

Priority will be given to businesses offering innovative and client-driven solutions.

3. Legal & Regulatory Readiness

Businesses must be willing to understand and comply with Ghana’s legal and regulatory framework.
Must be open to implementing best practices in corporate governance and compliance.

4. Investment Readiness & Financial Position

Businesses should have a clear revenue model or a structured plan for financial sustainability.
Must demonstrate interest in seeking investment or funding within the next 12-24 months.
Should be open to financial literacy and investment education to enhance fundraising efforts.

5. Commitment & Engagement

Founders or key decision-makers must commit to attending all programme sessions and actively participating in activities.

6. Impact & Value Creation

Businesses should align with the broader goal of creating sustainable economic value in Ghana.
Preference for businesses that contribute to job creation, economic empowerment, or industry transformation.

7. Ethical Standards & Sustainability

Businesses must uphold high ethical standards and responsible business practices.
Preference will be given to SMEs with sustainable and socially responsible business models.

8. Application & Selection Process