Kampala, Uganda— More than 550 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) gathered at Hotel Africana for the second edition of the Tupange Business Forum, an initiative spearheaded by Equity Bank Uganda
The forum aims to equip entrepreneurs with practical tools, financial resources, and strategic insights needed to scale and sustain their businesses.
Organized as part of the bank’s broader mission to empower local enterprises, the forum kicked off this year’s national activities in Kampala, with plans to expand to key business hubs across the country, including Mbale, Arua, Hoima, and Fort Portal.
Tupange Business ne Equity is a transformative platform that provides SMEs with access to financing, mentorship, entrepreneurial and financial training, business advisory services, and market linkages. The initiative reflects Equity Bank’s holistic approach to supporting Uganda’s SME sector.
“SMEs run the world, they are the heartbeat of our economy, creating seven out of every ten jobs globally,” said Olivia Mugaba, Head of SME at Equity Bank Uganda.
“At Equity Bank Uganda, we recognise their power and potential, which is why our focus is on financing integrated value chains, helping entrepreneurs manage cash flow, optimise operations, and unlock growth from the top anchor to the last mile. When we empower SMEs, we empower the nation.” she added.
Claver Serumaga, Executive Director at Equity Bank Uganda, emphasised the bank’s ongoing commitment to tailored financial solutions.
“At Equity Bank, we are committed to creating seamless banking experiences that empower SMEs to operate more efficiently,” Serumaga said. “Through innovations such as real-time payments, bulk salary processing, and unsecured supplier financing of up to UGX 1.5 billion, we continue to invest in solutions that enable sustainable business growth.”
Serumaga also highlighted the bank’s value chain approach: “We view every SME as part of a broader value chain that drives economic growth. By supporting your entire ecosystem and remaining fully accountable to our clients, we ensure that as your business expands, Equity Bank grows alongside you.”
With Uganda’s SMEs contributing significantly to GDP and employment, forums like Tupange Business are pivotal in bridging gaps between entrepreneurs and the financial ecosystem. Equity Bank’s inclusive model positions the institution not only as a financier but also as a long-term growth partner.
