In June 2025, dfcu Bank launched the dfcu SME Mobi Loan, a fully digital, short-term lending solution designed to offer fast, unsecured financing to Uganda’s small and medium-sized businesses.
With loan amounts ranging from UGX 250,000 to UGX 5 million, the product is available via the Bank’s USSD service; 240#, the dfcu Quick App, and the Bank’s website. It provides an easy, paperless, and real-time solution to the liquidity challenges faced by many SMEs.
We spoke to Isaac Bigirwa, Head of Cards and Payments at dfcu Bank, to learn more about this innovation and its potential to transform SME financing in Uganda.
Q: What is the dfcu SME Mobi Loan, and what problem does it solve?
A: The dfcu SME Mobi Loan is a digital, unsecured credit facility that gives small and medium businesses quick access to working capital. It’s designed to solve a critical challenge, access to timely financing. Many SMEs face urgent cash flow needs but are slowed down by lengthy processes and collateral requirements. This product removes those hurdles. It’s instant, paperless, and mobile-first.
Q: How does it work, and who is eligible?
A: The process is simple. Eligible SME customers—those with an active dfcu account are pre-qualified based on our internal scoring model. Once approved, they can dial *240#, log into the dfcu Quick App, or visit our website to apply and receive funds instantly. There’s no paperwork or branch visit involved, and no airtime is needed to complete the USSD process.
Q: What makes this product particularly relevant to Uganda’s SME sector?
A: SMEs operate in fast-paced environments. They need to make quick decisions and seize opportunities as they arise. The dfcu ME Mobi Loan enables that. Whether it’s restocking, paying suppliers, or handling a cash shortfall, this product gives business owners flexibility, speed, and control, right from their mobile phones.
Breaking Barriers: Charles Mudiwa on Intergenerational Leadership at Makerere Q: How does the dfcu SME Mobi Loan align with dfcu’s long-term strategy?
A: It fits into our broader focus on financial inclusion, digital innovation, and sustainable business growth. The dfcu SME Mobi Loan is not just about lending; it’s about bringing more businesses into the formal financial system and helping them grow over time. As SMEs build their credit profile through this product, they can graduate into larger, long-term financing options.
Q: What has the market response been so far?
A: Very encouraging. Customers appreciate the speed and ease of access. For many, it’s their first experience with digital credit, and the feedback has been positive. We’ve seen early adoption in sectors like trade, agriculture, and services.
Q: Is there a similar product for individual (non-business) customers?
A: Yes. The dfcu Mobi Loan for individuals is already in place and actively serving our personal banking customers. It offers the same key features, digital access, no paperwork, and instant disbursement.
Q: What’s your message to SMEs that are still hesitant to embrace digital credit?
A: Digital lending is secure, efficient, and built for convenience. The SME Mobi Loan reflects our commitment to giving SMEs practical tools to manage their finances. It’s more than just a loan; it’s a reliable, on-demand solution for urgent business needs. We encourage SMEs to take advantage of it and experience the ease for themselves.
