Access Bank in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation, has held a two-day financial strengthening workshop for women in SMEs.

The workshop is the second in the series of the Bank’s “Power Breakfast Series,” which was launched last year to equip and enhance the operational efficiency of SMEs across the country.

The Managing Director of Access Bank, Mr Dolapo Ogundimu, said the initiative was based on the strong conviction that special attention is needed to be given to women owned-SMEs.

“If women owned-SMEs don’t receive the needed attention to equip and retool their businesses to enable them compete effectively in the global market, then we would be jeopardising the economic successes that can be realised through women in the country,” he said.

Participants for the workshop underwent training in basic financial modules such as Business Financing, Book keeping and cash flow management among others.

Mrs Grace Amey-Obeng, Managing Director FC Group of Companies, urged the women entrepreneurs to keep detail records of operations to enable them know where their businesses stand all times.

She said the keeping of proper financial records would also help them to develop strategies to solve challenges as they arise.

“As the business grows find creative ways to deal with the financial issues and seek support from outside if it becomes necessary,” Mrs Amey-Obeng said.

Access Bank officially launched its unique approach to banking women known as the “W” initiative earlier in March this year.

The “W” seeks to inspire, connect and empower women across the country by offering a bundle of tailor made products, services and opportunities to women, ranging from young professionals, women with family and women in business.

The focus on women forms part of the Bank’s “W” Initiative value propositions to give women in business financial literacy to help grow their enterprises.

Adjudged Bank of the Year in 2014, Access Bank continues to demonstrate its leading role in the banking industry through innovative products and strategic partnerships that is helping to transform Ghana’s economic development.

The Bank continues to commit resources to improve well-being in key areas including education, health and social improvement across several communities in Ghana.