KAMPALA, March 2, 2026 – Finance Trust Bank [FTB] has partnered with the Initiative for I&P Entrepreneurs & Development [IPED] to improve access to loan facilities for women-owned business across Uganda.
The partnership aims to empower more women to access affordable financing for their businesses, particularly those that are environmentally responsible. The initiative is expected to reach at least 47 per cent of women engaged in the micro, small and medium-sized enterprise [MSME] sector.
The two partners have established a dedicated loan guarantee mechanism provided by IPED to help reduce collateral requirements and enable more women entrepreneurs to access formal financing under improved terms and conditions.
Under a shared responsibilities arrangement, the bank will manage loan appraisal, approval, disbursement and portfolio oversight, while IPED will validate eligibility criteria, including women-led ownership and compliance with green sector standards.
Key financing conditions for qualifying enterprises include an average loan size of approximately Shs 93 million, with an interest rate of 20 percent, repayable over a minimum period of 12 months. A grace period of at least six months will be offered before repayments begin. Enterprises will also be required to provide collateral of at least 50 per cent.
The facility primarily supports businesses operating in sectors such as waste management, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, the circular economy and eco-tourism, among other environmentally conscious initiatives.
While the programme is open to all eligible businesses, applications will be processed in cohorts, with a selection timeline of approximately four to eight weeks.
The initiative seeks to expand women’s access to financial empowerment, strengthen financial inclusion and increase the longevity of businesses within the sector.
https://thecooperator.news/finance-trust-bank-loses-tier-i-commercial-bank-licence/
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