The Youth Step-Up Loan by Uganda Development Bank (UDB) is a specialized financing solution designed to empower young entrepreneurs and innovators across Uganda. Through this facility, the Bank offers affordable capital alongside tailored business development services to help youth-led enterprises grow and thrive. The loan is complemented by training and mentorship programs that equip young people with critical social, economic, and entrepreneurial skills. By facilitating access to finance and capacity-building opportunities, the Youth Step-Up Loan enables the youth to meaningfully participate in the country’s development process, improve their livelihoods, and contribute to inclusive and sustainable economic transformation.
Key Features
- Minimum financing of UGX 100 million and maximum financing of UGX 540 million (UGX 300 million for the Kickstart Facility).
- One-time appraisal fee of 0.5%.
- Interest rate ranging between 10%–12% per annum.
Criteria
- A youth is defined as an individual between 18–35 years of age.
- Shareholding/Ownership: Enterprise with more than 30% ownership/shareholding by youth.
- Product or Service: Enterprise involved in skilling or reskilling youth, including BTVET institutions and incubation hubs, where youth enrolment exceeds 50%.
- Employee Composition: Enterprise employing at least 35% youth.
