NEW: dfcu Bank launches UGX 200m Maali loan for SMEs

dfcu Bank has expanded its small and medium enterprise (SME) financing range with the launch of the dfcu Unsecured Maali Business Loan, a new working capital facility offering eligible businesses between UGX 10 million and UGX 200 million(over $53,000).

The product is designed for established enterprises that have moved beyond the start-up phase and need timely access to capital to increase inventory, manage cash flow and pursue growth opportunities. It targets formally registered SMEs, including sole proprietorships, partnerships and limited liability companies,that maintain an active transactional account with the bank.

Under the facility, first-time borrowers may access up to UGX 50 million, while repeat borrowers can qualify for up to UGX 200 million, subject to assessment. Loans are repayable over three to twelve months, with schedules aligned to each customer’s cash flow cycle.

Annette Kiconco, Chief Retail Banking Officer at dfcu Bank, said the facility addresses a practical gap faced by many stable businesses.

“Across Uganda, we continue to see businesses that have strong customer relationships, reliable operations and growing demand for their products and services. What many of them need is timely working capital that allows them to increase stock, fulfil orders, manage cash flow and take advantage of opportunities as they arise. The dfcu Unsecured Maali Business Loan has been designed to support that need,” she said.

Kiconco noted that SME financing requirements often follow the rhythm of business operations — for example, a trader stocking up ahead of a peak season or a distributor meeting a large customer order. Access to appropriately structured capital can determine whether a business seizes the opportunity or misses it.

To qualify, businesses must have operated continuously for at least three years, hold a valid trading licence, and demonstrate healthy performance and consistent cash flows. Applicants need at least 24 months of banking history, including a minimum of six months with dfcu, and a minimum monthly turnover of UGX 3 million over the preceding six months.

The loan can be used to increase inventory, finance day-to-day operations, purchase business inputs or support expansion plans. Businesses seeking more than UGX 200 million may be considered for other solutions within dfcu’s wider SME and business banking portfolio.

William Kayongo, Head of Enterprise Banking, said the product complements the bank’s existing support for enterprises at different stages of growth.

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“Many SMEs have reached a stage where their next phase of growth depends on access to the right level of working capital at the right time. Through the dfcu Unsecured Maali Business Loan, we are providing an additional financing option for businesses with proven performance, while ensuring that facilities remain aligned to cash flow and repayment capacity,” he explained.

Kayongo added that the facility is intended for working capital and growth needs rather than debt refinancing, and forms part of dfcu Bank’s ongoing effort to offer practical, responsible financing solutions to business customers.