Nairobi — Nine entrepreneurs from Narok County have secured business grants under the Predators' Den programme, an initiative designed to support startups through training and financial backing.

The winners were selected from 20 finalists who had been shortlisted from an initial pool of 115 applicants. They pitched business ideas spanning sectors such as water, energy, agriculture and small-scale manufacturing.

Predators' Den, an initiative by Maa Trust and supported by partners including I&M Bank and GIZ, equips entrepreneurs in the Maasai Mara with business skills, financial literacy and planning expertise.

The nine winners shared a total of Sh1.9 million, with organisers pledging continued support to help them grow sustainable ventures.

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"I plan to introduce biscuits and cookies and invest in equipment like a bread slicer. This opportunity will take my business to the next level," said Carl Naurori, the competition's overall winner.

Maa Trust trustee Jackson Looseiya said such platforms enable local entrepreneurs to tap into untapped opportunities and drive economic growth in the region.

He noted that ventures such as water services, soap making, bakeries and environmental conservation provide essential products while creating livelihoods.

Programmes Officer at I&M bank' Naomi Cheres said the lender partnered in the initiative to support youth- and women-led enterprises. She added that 168 entrepreneurs have already benefited from training under the bank's Street Business School programme.