Isaac Bigirwa, Head of Cards and Payments at dfcu Bank
Background
In June, dfcu Bank officially launched the SME Mobi Loan, a digital-first, unsecured lending solution designed to provide SMEs with immediate access to working capital. Accessible via 240#, the dfcu Quick App, and www.dfcugroup.com, the SME Mobi Loan is tailored to Uganda’s small business sector, delivering loan amounts between UGX 250,000 and UGX 5,000,000 with no paperwork, no collateral, and instant disbursement.
We caught up with Isaac Bigirwa, Head of Cards and Payments at dfcu Bank, to learn more about this innovation and what’s coming next for individual customers.
Q&A Interview
Q1: Isaac, tell us about the SME Mobi Loan. What makes this product stand out?
A: The dfcu SME Mobi Loan is a digital, short-term, unsecured loan designed to empower small and medium businesses with quick access to funding, within minutes. What makes it truly unique is how easy it is to access: there’s no paperwork, no collateral, and it’s entirely available through our Quick Banking channels. It’s a practical solution for business owners who need working capital fast to keep things running or seize an opportunity.
Q2: Why was this product a priority for dfcu Bank in 2025?
A: Uganda’s SME sector is vibrant but often constrained by lack of quick and affordable financing. Many SMEs fall outside the reach of traditional banking processes, which tend to be slower and more documentation-heavy. The SME Mobi Loan was developed to bridge this gap, making finance accessible, flexible, and mobile-first. This fits perfectly within our digital transformation agenda.
Q3: Who can access the SME Mobi Loan and how does it work in practice?
A: Any dfcu SME customer with an active business account and a consistent transaction history is eligible. We use a smart internal scoring system to pre-qualify these customers. Once pre-approved, they simply dial *240#, use the dfcu QuickApp, or visit our website to see their eligible loan amount and apply. Disbursement is completed in minutes.
Q4: What benefits does the dfcu SME Mobi Loan offer to entrepreneurs on the ground?
A: First, it offers speed and convenience; access to funds in real time. Second, there’s no paperwork or branch visits, which is critical for busy business owners. Third, it offers loan amounts ranging from UGX 250,000 to UGX 5 million, which covers a wide range of SME needs, from replenishing stock to covering short-term cash flow gaps. It’s all about agility. For customers who choose to access the dfcu Mobi SME Loan through our USSD code, *240#, we have created a multi-lingual process to ensure ease of use. Through the USSD option, customers can access the loan without having to load airtime.
Q5: How does this initiative tie into dfcu’s broader strategy?
A: Our strategy is rooted in financial inclusion, digital innovation, and supporting business growth. The SME Mobi Loan helps new and existing SME customers build their credit profiles. Over time, we aim to help them transition to larger, secured lending products. It’s a key part of our mission to go further together with our customers.
Q6: What kind of feedback have you received since launch?
A: Very positive. Customers are excited about how simple and fast the process is. For many, it’s their first experience accessing credit digitally, and they’re pleasantly surprised by how smooth it is. We’ve seen strong early uptake, especially among traders and service providers. We have also observed a high rate of prompt repayments, as many customers are keen to maintain their limits. This behaviour reflects a strong appreciation for the product.
Q7: Is there a plan to introduce a similar solution for individual (non-SME) customers?
A: Yes; dfcu’s Mobi Loan for individual customers has been in place for a while and is actively serving our personal banking segment. Just like the SME Mobi Loan, it’s fully digital, unsecured, and disbursed in real time through our Quick Banking channels (240#, dfcu Quick App, and our website). It’s designed to help individuals manage short-term financial needs quickly and conveniently, from emergency expenses to daily cash flow gaps. The SME Mobi Loan builds on this proven model, extending the same ease and speed to business owners.
Q8: How can the SMEs benefit from this new solution
A: First, open an account with dfcu today and consistently use it to qualify. If you already have an account, just register on our Quick Banking platform or dial *240# to check your Mobi loan limit.
Q9: What would you say to SMEs still hesitant about digital credit solutions?
A: I’d say: give it a try. The world is moving forward, and dfcu is building tools that are safe, secure, and designed around your needs. The dfcu SME Mobi Loan is more than just a loan—it’s a fast, convenient solution designed to meet urgent business needs, giving entrepreneurs instant access to cash when they need it most, without hassle.
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