dfcu Bank unleashes digital lifeline for ugandan SMEs with instant, unsecured Mobi Loan
For millions of Ugandan entrepreneurs, the journey to secure a business loan has traditionally involved navigating a maze of paperwork, asset pledges, and prolonged waiting periods, often leaving them stranded when capital is most urgently needed.
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), the undisputed backbone of Uganda’s economy, have long grappled with limited access to timely and affordable credit. This perennial challenge, often characterized by stringent collateral requirements and lengthy approval processes, is now being directly addressed by dfcu Bank.
In a significant move set to revolutionize SME financing, dfcu Bank launched its SME Mobi Loan in June 2025 – a fully digital, unsecured, and paperless solution designed to provide instant working capital.
For millions of Ugandan entrepreneurs, the journey to secure a business loan has traditionally involved navigating a maze of paperwork, asset pledges, and prolonged waiting periods, often leaving them stranded when capital is most urgently needed.
The dfcu SME Mobi Loan aims to dismantle these barriers, offering a lifeline accessible directly from a mobile phone.
A Digital Bridge to Business Growth
Speaking about the new offering, William Kayongo, Head of Enterprise Banking at dfcu Bank, highlighted its strategic importance. “The dfcu SME Mobi Loan is a short-term, fully digital loan designed for small and medium businesses that need quick working capital. Think of it as a lifeline for stocking up, paying suppliers, or bridging payroll. It’s unsecured, requires no paperwork, and is applied for via mobile phone — either *240# or the dfcu QuickApp. Once approved, funds land in the customer’s account within minutes.”
Kayongo explained that the timing of the launch reflects a keen understanding of market needs and dfcu’s commitment to digital transformation. “SMEs have been very clear about their pain points: long turnaround times and collateral demands. We launched the SME Mobi Loan in June 2025 as part of dfcu’s digital transformation strategy — removing barriers to finance so SMEs can focus on growth.”
Unlike dfcu’s original Mobi Loan, which catered to individual retail customers, the SME Mobi Loan is tailor-made for businesses. “The SME dfcuSME Mobi Loan is specifically for businesses. It focuses on working capital — the day-to-day needs that keep businesses running,” Kayongo clarified.
Simple Eligibility and Access
The new product offers unparalleled ease of access, addressing a critical gap in the market. Business owners can borrow between UGX 250,000 and UGX 5 million, with a flexible 30-day repayment term.
“Eligibility is straightforward,” Kayongo continued. “First, you must hold a dfcu business account in good standing. Second, we assess your transaction history; including turnover patterns, account activity, and how long you’ve banked with us. Finally, you need a solid repayment record, whether with dfcu or other financial institutions. These factors help us ensure the loan goes to businesses with a proven track record and the capacity to grow.”
Loan limits are dynamic, determined by a scoring system that considers account activity, cash flow, tenure, and past repayment behavior. “If your business grows and you maintain a good record, your limit can increase. The reverse also applies,” Kayongo noted, adding that limits and pricing will adapt to customer behavior and market conditions.
Applying for an SME Mobi Loan is seamless
- On USSD (240#): Dial in, select the Mobi Loan option, confirm the offer, and authenticate. Approval and disbursement are instant.
- On the dfcu QuickApp: Open the app, review your pre-qualified limit, terms, and due date, then accept and authenticate. Funds are credited immediately.
Empowering Uganda’s Entrepreneurs
The dfcu SME Mobi Loan isn’t just about providing credit; it’s about fostering trust and unhindered access. By leveraging technology to bypass traditional hurdles like paperwork and collateral, dfcu Bank is giving Uganda’s entrepreneurs the agility to respond quickly to market opportunities, manage their cash flow effectively, and grow their businesses on their own terms.
This initiative marks a significant step towards unlocking the full potential of Uganda’s vibrant SME sector, ensuring that the economic backbone of the nation has the financial muscle it needs to thrive.
