Equity kicks off SME engagement drive with 2025 edition of ‘Tupange Business’ Forum

August 14, 2025 in Business, Companies, Finance, Financial Services by Editor

More than 500 small and medium enterprise (SME) leaders gathered at Hotel Africana on Wednesday as Equity Bank Uganda launched the 2025 edition of its “Tupange ne Equity Business Forum” (Let’s talk business withEquity).

The initiative, now in its second year, is designed to strengthen SME competitiveness through access to financing, mentorship, market linkages, and business advisory services. This year’s activities will roll out from Kampala to other key districts including Mbale, Arua, Hoima, and Fort Portal.

Executive Director Claver Serumaga said the bank is building digital and financial solutions that ease cash flow and transaction management for SMEs, including agent banking, point-of-sale services, and the soon-to-launch Pay with Equity platform. Other innovations include internet banking with ERP integration, real-time supplier financing, and unsecured loans of up to UGX 1.5 billion.

Keynote speaker Dr Fred Muhunza, Economic Advisor to the President, underscored the need for efficient and integrated value chains.

“In business, your success is tied to every link in your value chain,” he said. “If the person who supplies you or buys from you struggles, you will feel it too. That’s why Equity Bank’s efforts to finance the entire chain are commendable.”

Guest speaker Pastor Robert Kayanja highlighted Equity Bank’s role in supporting social enterprises and community projects, citing its work in Karamoja to finance tractors and agricultural projects in the fight against hunger.

“Equity Bank is more than a financial institution – it’s a partner that cares for people. In Karamoja, they stood with us in our fight against hunger, financing tractors and agricultural projects that have transformed communities. Their support proves that with the right partner, SMEs and social enterprises can thrive, and together we can create sustainable solutions that change lives.”

Serumaga reiterated that SMEs are central to Uganda’s economic growth and that the bank’s strategy is to strengthen entire business ecosystems.

“We view every SME as part of a broader value chain. By supporting your ecosystem, we ensure that as your business grows, Equity Bank grows alongside you,” he said.