More than 40 Business Development Service (BDS) providers from across Uganda have been equipped with the knowledge and tools to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in accessing finance through the MSME Financing Gateway. The onboarding session was organized by Private Sector Foundation Uganda in partnership with the International Trade Centre.
The session, held on Tuesday, 3rd March at Protea Hotel Naguru Skyz, introduced participants to the digital platform designed to connect MSMEs to financial institutions, appropriate financing products, and professional business advisory services.
The MSME Financing Gateway is a centralized online platform aimed at addressing the persistent financing gap faced by small businesses. By improving the visibility of MSMEs to lenders and linking them to enterprise support services, the platform helps businesses become more investment-ready.
During the onboarding, BDS providers were guided through the platform’s functionality, including the registration process, navigation of key features, and the role they can play in supporting enterprises to effectively use the system.
Speaking during the training, PSFU’s Manager for Member Services, Ronny Mulongo, emphasized the important role BDS providers play in preparing businesses to meet financing requirements.
He noted that while the Gateway simplifies the process of connecting MSMEs to financial institutions, BDS providers remain critical in strengthening enterprises through improved systems, proper record keeping, and enhanced financial readiness.
Participants were also assured that the platform has strong data protection safeguards to ensure the safety and confidentiality of user information.
PSFU Outreach Manager Florence Mambea highlighted that the platform also offers BDS providers an opportunity to increase their visibility within Uganda’s enterprise support ecosystem.
She noted that the Gateway enables BDS providers to showcase their expertise and connect with enterprises seeking advisory services before accessing financing, thereby strengthening collaboration among ecosystem players.
Representing ITC, Juliet Musoke, International Coordinator for the EU-MARKUP II Programme funded by the European Union, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to providing continued technical support to ensure effective use of the platform.
The MSME Financing Gateway is part of broader efforts to promote financial inclusion and strengthen Uganda’s business support environment.
By integrating BDS providers into the system, stakeholders expect improved coordination, stronger enterprise readiness, and expanded access to finance for MSMEs.
The onboarding marks another step toward building a digitally connected ecosystem that supports the growth and resilience of Uganda’s small businesses.
