The fourth annual Ghana Small Medium Enterprises (SME) Summit would open from November 20 to November 21 in Accra, on the theme: "Boosting SME Growth in Challenging Economic Times."

A statement issued in Accra on Tuesday by Mr Paul Asinor, the conference Director of Occupational Management Limited, Africa, organisers of the event said nearly 100 delegates made up of business owners, chief executive officers, managing directors, entrepreneurs, investors, key decision makers and policy makers in the SME market in Ghana are expected to attend.

It said local businesses, most especially SMEs are currently reeling under the effects of high rates of inflation and higher rates of bank interest, fluctuations in electricity delivery, the staggering cedi against the dollar and labour unrest.

The statement said small business growth has at best, stagnated in recent times with many SMEs forcing to downsize or even shut down.

"This dismal trend need not continue for SMEs who are determined to update their processes, take advantage of modern technologies, equip themselves with knowledge in sales and marketing and ultimately grow their businesses even in challenging times,” it added.

It said this year's event looks at practical solutions to the problems facing SMEs as they are vulnerable and bear the brunt of any major negative shocks in the business sector.

It said by the end of the summit delegates would discover how to grow their businesses even in a challenging economic climate, gain practical insights and learn from successful business owners and experts on their innovation experiences, business philosophies and formula for success.

"Delegates will also hear from representatives from various government agencies on the new government assistance schemes available to power the growth of their businesses," the statement said.

Topics to be discussed included Building Balance Sheet in Difficult Economic Conditions, Staying Ahead of the Competition-Crucial Tips to Beat Your Rivals, Getting Customers-Tips to Selling Successfully, Creating a Loyal Workforce Culture Even in a Challenging Economy and Best Businesses to start in an Economic Downturn.

Other topics are Government Initiatives to Support SMEs in Ghana, The Impact of an Economic Recession on Business Strategies of an SME, The Effect of a Sliding Cedi on Your Business and How to Combat It.

Some of the speakers for the event included Ethel Cofie, Founder, BarCamp Africa, Charles Amoh, Lead Consultant, NTHC SME Unit, Brigitte Dzogbenuku, Executive Director, Empowering Women Ghana and Anita Wiafe, Managing Director, OML Africa.

Others are Mintah Gyampoh, Chief Executive Officer, Chemitech Solutions, Paul Ababio (Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Gold Coast Agri Ventures, Katherine Tosan Woode Chief Commercial Officer, Africa World Airlines, Jennifer Agyeman, Chief Executive Officer, Amazing, Alfred Nkrow, Commercial Manager, IS Internet Solutions Ghana Limited and Emmanuel Nyame, Chairman, Ghana Startup Cup.