Standard Chartered Botswana, De Beers, and Stanford Collaborate to Boost SME Growth. Standard Chartered Botswana, in partnership with De Beers Group and the Stanford Graduate School of Business, hosted an informational session aimed at supporting the growth and transformation of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Botswana. The event introduced Standard Chartered’s SME clients to the Stanford Seed Transformation Program, a globally recognized initiative designed to help businesses scale, drive innovation, and achieve sustainable growth.
The session provided entrepreneurs with insights into the program’s structure, benefits, and impact, offering a valuable platform for networking and collaboration. Attendees participated in interactive exercises, fostering discussions on business strategy, financial management, and market expansion.
A highlight of the event was an intimate conversation with Ditech co-founder Thatayaone Dichaba, who shared his journey as an entrepreneur navigating business challenges. Dichaba reflected on how the Stanford Seed Transformation Program provided him with strategic tools, mentorship, and access to a global alumni network, which helped propel his business forward.
Through this initiative, Standard Chartered Botswana and its partners aim to equip local businesses with world-class knowledge and resources, enabling them to scale operations, create employment opportunities, and contribute to Botswana’s economic diversification.
This collaboration reflects a broader commitment to empowering SMEs, fostering financial inclusion, and strengthening Botswana’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Entrepreneurs interested in the Stanford Seed Transformation Program (Class of 2026) are encouraged to explore how they can leverage this opportunity for long-term success.
