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By William Kayongo
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of Uganda’s economy, contributing significantly to job creation, innovation, and economic growth. According to the Uganda Investment Authority, SMEs account for about 90% of the private sector, employ more than 2.5 million people, and produce over 80% of Uganda’s manufacturing output.
Despite their pivotal role, SMEs often face a range of challenges, including limited access to finance, lack of adequate infrastructure, and minimal access to markets. Financing, in particular, remains a critical hurdle, with many SMEs struggling to secure the funds they need to grow, expand, or even sustain operations.
The SME sector in Uganda is diverse, encompassing a wide range of industries. Each of these sectors has unique needs, and therefore, requires different financial solutions. Over the years, dfcu Bank has recognized the importance of providing tailored financial solutions and dfcu’s approach to SME financing is grounded in our understanding that each business is unique, requiring different types of support depending on its growth stage and sector.
One of the most critical needs for SMEs is access to working capital. Whether a business is in its infancy or already scaling up, having the liquidity to cover day-to-day operations is essential for survival and growth.
dfcu Bank offers a suite of Working Capital finance products designed to address these needs at different stages of business development. Baraka Loans provide short-term financing to SMEs and these loans are perfect for businesses that need immediate access to funds without the burden of long-term debt.
Business Growth Loans are designed for SMEs that are looking to expand their operations and these loans are tailored to businesses that need more substantial financial backing to scale their operations, purchase inventory, or upgrade equipment while Commercial Loans offer medium- to long-term financing for larger businesses looking to invest in new projects, enter new markets, or grow their product lines. These loans are ideal for enterprises with a proven track record and a clear growth strategy.
For SMEs involved in trading, access to capital is vital to managing their supply chains and meeting their contractual obligations. dfcu Bank’s Trade Finance solutions help businesses bridge the gap between order fulfillment and payment, ensuring that they can continue to operate without financial disruptions.
Invoice Discounting allows businesses to utilize the cash tied up in unpaid invoices by providing immediate liquidity, enabling SMEs to cover their operational costs while waiting for their contractors to settle invoices. LPO Financing (Local Purchase Order) supports SMEs with confirmed purchase orders to access funding to fulfill their orders, paying suppliers and covering expenses while waiting for the buyer to pay for the goods or services.
As SMEs grow, many seek to invest in commercial property to expand their long-term assets. dfcu Bank’s Commercial Property Financing offers businesses the opportunity to acquire office spaces, warehouses, or retail outlets without constraining their working capital requirements .
This product is particularly appealing for medium-sized businesses that are ready to take the next step in their growth journey.
Another key offering is dfcu’s Asset Finance, with a particular focus on vehicle financing. Many SMEs in Uganda rely on vehicles for transporting goods, reaching customers, or expanding their delivery services. dfcu’s asset finance solutions allow businesses to acquire vehicles and other movable assets through structured financing, offering up to 100% financing with flexible repayment terms.
With a comprehensive range of tailored financial products, dfcu Bank is a critical enabler for SMEs in Uganda. As the economy grows, dfcu remains dedicated to providing the right financial solutions for SMEs at every stage of their journey. The bank’s holistic approach to SME financing not only addresses immediate cash flow needs but also supports long-term growth, positioning dfcu as a trusted partner for Uganda’s entrepreneurs. Through innovation and support to SMEs, dfcu Bank continues to drive economic growth and business sustainability in Uganda.
The author is the Head of Enterprise Banking at dfcu Bank