Turning Passion into Profit

Kevin Wamwea, a young entrepreneur from Kiambu County, discovered his passion for art at an early age. By 12, he was already creating fun designs inspired by the artisans in his community and his family members. In 2018, he took a bold step, transforming his love for art into a business and founding Krome Art Design. However, like most Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Kenya, Kevin’s journey into entrepreneurship was challenging. Starting, he faced several hurdles, such as inadequate knowledge and skill and limited exposure to financial opportunities for expansion because his business was not yet formalized.

He lacked the necessary skills for expansive marketing such as through social media management, which hindered his ability to promote Krome Art Design and reach a wider audience. This is when he learned about USAID Strategic Partnership Program’s Kenya Small Business Development Center (Kenya SBDC) project at a local event.

With the assistance of Kenya SBDC, Kevin formalized Krome Art Design, enhancing the business’s credibility. Kenya SBDC also helped him access platforms to showcase his work, including the prestigious 12th SME Conference at Strathmore University, where he connected with new customers and business partners. Additionally, Kevin participated in the ‘Jenga Biz’ initiative organized by the Kiambu SBDC, where he gained valuable cash flow management, brand development, and customer relationship management skills. Through Kenya SBDC’s targeted training on social media, Kevin learned how to engage with his audience effectively, using tools like targeted ads and high-quality content to boost his online presence.

This support has had a transformative impact on Krome Art Design. Kevin’s formalization of the business has increased its visibility, credibility, and sales. His expanded social media skills have allowed him to reach a wider audience, driving up his customer base and revenue.

The business’s growth has created three new jobs in the local community, contributing to economic and social empowerment in his neighbourhood. Kevin’s journey as an entrepreneur has also strengthened his personal growth. He has developed skills in customer engagement, learned to navigate diverse social situations, and gained insights into adapting his communication to various audiences.

Looking to the future, Kevin envisions Krome Art Design as a business that continues to uplift the community and contribute to the creative industry. He believes in creating opportunities for others and hopes to inspire young people to explore careers in art and design.

Reflecting on his journey, he expresses his optimism: “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Kenya SBDC for helping me formalize and market my business. Despite the few challenges that we have, we have continued to grow.!”

With the support of USAID Strategic Partnership Program’s Kenya Small Business Development Centers project, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) like Krome Art Design’s agribusiness traders are being transformed in various counties.  The program offers advisory services to MSMEs in Kisumu, Kiambu, Makueni, Isiolo, Mombasa and Nakuru in finance, markets, and leveraging growth opportunities. Through their one-on-one or group advisory which are tailored to the needs of the businesses, they have continued to transform the lives and livelihoods of people in the counties and ultimately, contribute to the Gross Domestic Product of the country.

To this extent, the program has supported over 10000 MSMEs to increase their sales to about Kes. 180,000,000 and acquire more than Kes. 255,000,000 in capital to support their businesses.

Kevin advises aspiring entrepreneurs to conduct thorough research on their market and industry trends to navigate challenges better and make informed decisions. He highlights the importance of mentorship and organizational support, like that offered by the Kenya SBDC, which he sees as a vital bridge for MSMEs to succeed. Kevin’s journey shows how access to training and advisory services can empower entrepreneurs to realize their potential, contribute to their communities, and create sustainable businesses.

Credits:

Cynthia Muthama

Market Research Associate – USAID Strategic Partnership Program