Equity Bank Uganda has officially launched the 2025 Tupange Business ne Equity Forum, a nationwide programme aimed at helping Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) grow stronger and more connected.
This year’s theme, “Financing Integrated Value Chains and SME Growth”, focuses on how businesses can grow faster when every link in their chain- from suppliers to buyers is strong and supported.
The first forum was held yesterday at Hotel Africana in Kampala, with more sessions planned in Mbale, Arua, Fort Portal and Hoima. These events are part of Equity Bank’s mission to bring financial solutions and business support closer to entrepreneurs across the country.
“At Equity Bank, we bring banking closer to SMEs- from our agents and POS services to the soon-to-launch Pay with Equity platform- making it easier for businesses to manage daily cash flow and transactions,” said Claver Serumaga, Executive Director at Equity Bank Uganda.
Serumaga also highlighted that Equity Bank is investing in technology and financial tools such as real-time payments, bulk salary processing, ERP system integration, and unsecured supplier financing of up to UGX 1.5 billion. These solutions are designed to help SMEs operate more efficiently, access finance quickly, and scale sustainably.
“We see every SME as part of a bigger value chain. When we finance the whole chain; suppliers, distributors and retailers- we make sure that every link is strong, so businesses can grow without breaking the connections that keep them running,” Serumaga added.
The event featured Fred Muhunza, Economic Advisor to the Minister of Finance and Senior Lecturer at Makerere University Business School as the keynote speaker, who explained why value chains matter, “Your business success depends on the people you work with. If your supplier or buyer struggles financially, your business will also feel the impact. That’s why financing integrated value chains is key- it keeps the entire network strong,” he said.
Pastor Robert Kayanja, one of Equity Bank’s SME clients also shared his experience, “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,” he said.
Uganda’s SME sector is the backbone of the economy, making up over 90% of private sector activity and employing millions of people. Yet, many face challenges like inflation, lack of collateral, low digital adoption and limited access to market information.
Through Tupange Business ne Equity, the Bank has already reached over 600 SME owners; providing mentorship, financial literacy training and networking opportunities with sector experts. The programme builds on the success of Abakyala ku Ntikko, which empowers women-led businesses through financial inclusion and skills training.
Equity Bank’s continued investment in SMEs is not just about banking- it’s about building strong value chains, promoting economic inclusion, and supporting national development. By financing and connecting every part of the business ecosystem, the Bank is helping Ugandan SMEs thrive now and in the future.
