Kenya to launch KJET matching grants for small businesses

The Kenyan government is set to launch the Kenya Jobs for Economic Transformation (KJET) programme to support thousands of micro and small businesses through non-refundable matching grants. Announced by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, the initiative aims to assist entrepreneurs in acquiring equipment for small-scale manufacturing and value addition.

The first cohort of the programme will target businesses seeking capital investments of Sh5 million or less. Under this model, beneficiaries must raise 50 per cent of the required capital, with the government providing the remaining 50 per cent as a matching grant. Following this initial phase, a larger financing window will be introduced to support businesses requiring grants of up to Sh10 million.

Scheduled to begin rolling out in October, the KJET programme will disburse funds in three cohorts across October, November, and January. The initiative intends to ensure equitable access by selecting beneficiaries from every county, constituency, and ward, with a specific focus on rural and underserved communities. Targeted sectors include dairy, textile, coffee, tea, rice, leather, artisanal mining, the blue economy, and edible oils.