Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from across Ghana used the 2026 Northern Business Fair in Tamale to showcase their products, engage customers and explore new opportunities for expanding their markets, as businesses highlighted market access as a major factor influencing growth.
The two-day event, organised by Channel One TV and Citi FM at Jubilee Park, brought together hundreds of businesses, investors, consumers and industry players, with exhibitors from sectors including agriculture, agro-processing, manufacturing, fashion, technology, cosmetics and financial services.
Beyond product exhibitions and sales, discussions around the fair focused on the challenge many businesses face in reaching customers beyond their immediate locations, particularly those operating outside Ghana’s main commercial centres of Accra and Kumasi.
For several exhibitors, the opportunity to directly engage consumers, receive feedback and introduce their brands to new audiences was one of the key benefits of participating in the event.
Many businesses outside major urban centres often have limited access to wider customer networks, distribution channels and corporate partnerships, factors that can influence their ability to scale operations.
The Northern Business Fair was designed to create those connections by bringing businesses together with consumers, investors, financial institutions and potential partners in one location.
Exhibitors displayed locally produced goods and services, ranging from processed agricultural products and food items to fashion, household products, technology solutions and other Made-in-Ghana products.
Some businesses reported strong customer engagement and sales during the exhibition, while others said the opportunity to build relationships with potential partners was an important outcome of their participation.
The Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf John, at the opening of the fair, encouraged investors to explore opportunities in the region, highlighting the potential for enterprise development and economic activity.
Organisers said the event was aimed at supporting businesses to increase visibility, access new markets and strengthen partnerships that can contribute to long-term growth.
The focus on market access reflects a broader challenge facing SMEs across Ghana. While financing remains an important concern, businesses also require stronger links to consumers, distributors and markets to expand sustainably.
The fair received support from Ecobank, the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) and the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), with organisers describing the event as part of efforts to promote entrepreneurship and local enterprise development.
