Tugende
Founded
2012 in Kampala, Uganda — Tugende began as a social enterprise focused on closing the credit gap for informal sector entrepreneurs by enabling them to own income-generating assets rather than rent them, starting with motorcycle taxis (“boda bodas”).
Founders & Leadership
Michael Wilkerson — Founder & CEO
Headquarters / Location
Kampala, Uganda — with expanded operations and branches in Kenya and ongoing regional growth.
Industry
FinTech / Asset Finance & SME Financial Services — specializing in lease-to-own solutions, digital credit building, and enterprise growth support for informal entrepreneurs and MSMEs.
Overview
Tugende is a technology-enabled asset finance and business support company that helps micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in East Africa own productive assets — such as motorcycles, taxis, matatus, boat engines, smartphones, shop equipment, and more — through affordable lease-to-own and hire-purchase financing. The company integrates training, insurance (life and medical), safety gear, and comprehensive support into its packages to improve outcomes for clients. Tugende also enables clients to build verifiable digital credit profiles, which unlock access to future financial products and opportunities within its ecosystem. With a large digital platform and a rapidly increasing client base, Tugende has financed tens of thousands of entrepreneurs and continues to expand its services and geographic footprint.
Core Features & Capabilities
Lease-to-Own Asset Finance: Enabling clients to transition from renting to owning income-generating assets like boda bodas, taxis, and business equipment.
Insurance & Safety Services: Included life, medical, and product insurance, plus safety training and equipment to support client welfare and success.
Digital Client App & Profile: A digital platform for clients to manage accounts, track payments, and access support resources.
Support & Training: Business and operational guidance that drives productivity and sustainability for entrepreneurs.
Credit History & Future Opportunities: Clients build digital credit profiles that unlock future financing opportunities and rewards.
Target Market
Informal Sector Entrepreneurs such as motorcycle taxi riders and small business owners who lack access to traditional banking credit.
Micro & Small Enterprises needing affordable access to productive assets to grow income streams.
Underserved MSMEs in Uganda, Kenya, and potentially other East African markets needing inclusive, asset-based financial solutions.
Value Proposition
Tugende’s value proposition centers on empowering informal and small business owners to own productive assets, which has historically been a barrier to growth due to lack of credit access. By combining innovative asset finance, technology, insurance, training, and high-touch customer support, Tugende offers a comprehensive ecosystem that not only finances assets but also improves economic stability, builds digital credit histories, and unlocks future opportunities for its clients. This approach transforms informal work into scalable enterprise, enabling individuals to increase earnings, access additional financial products, and pursue long-term economic growth. With a strong social mission and a tech-enabled model, Tugende bridges the gap between underserved MSMEs and the formal financial system in East Africa.