Ecobank Uganda Unveils ‘Ellevate’: A Holistic Initiative to Empower Women in Business

In a significant stride towards fostering financial inclusion and economic empowerment for women, Ecobank Uganda, a subsidiary of the leading Pan-African banking group Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, today officially launched “Ellevate by Ecobank.” This groundbreaking initiative is meticulously crafted to support, empower, and inspire the sustained growth of women-led and women-owned businesses across Uganda.

Speaking at the launch event in Kampala, Grace Muliisa, Managing Director of Ecobank Uganda, emphasised that “Ellevate,” aptly themed “More than Money,” represents a bold commitment to the holistic well-being of the modern African woman. “At Ecobank, we believe women deserve more than financial products; they deserve opportunity, access, and peace of mind. ‘Ellevate’ is a platform that delivers this and more. It’s about supporting women with what they truly need to thrive,” Muliisa stated, highlighting the initiative’s comprehensive approach.

“Ellevate” transcends traditional banking offerings by creating a vibrant ecosystem that seamlessly integrates financial solutions with crucial capacity building, enhanced visibility, and vital emotional support. It acknowledges the multifaceted and pivotal roles women play in society as leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and caregivers.

Key highlights of the “Ellevate” program include:

• Financial Solutions: Offering unsecured financing of up to $50,000 for qualifying businesses, along with women-friendly accounts, convenient digital payment options, and attractive investment products.
• Network Support Solutions: Providing invaluable access to business masterclasses, leadership training, mentorship opportunities, and digital visibility support. Participants will also receive invitations to exclusive networking and business forums, fostering a strong community.
• Market Access: Facilitating broader market reach through promotion on Ecobank platforms, including access to MyTradeHub, and enabling instant fund remittances to 33 African markets.
• Preferential Support: Granting access to premier banking lounges and offering tailored wealth management advisory services specifically designed for women entrepreneurs.

Ecobank Uganda aims to significantly increase the number of women-led businesses it serves, activate its existing female customer base, and cultivate greater internal awareness of its gender-focused services through this initiative.

Elizabeth Mwerinde Kasedde, Head of Commercial Banking at Ecobank Uganda, underscored the bank’s understanding of women’s diverse needs beyond just capital. “Women want more than money; they want mentorship, wellness, learning opportunities, and community. ‘Ellevate’ is our answer to that call,” she affirmed. “It’s our way of investing in the future of Uganda’s economy, empowering one woman at a time.”

“Ellevate by Ecobank” stands as a tangible manifestation of the bank’s overarching Pan-African vision: to serve as a catalyst for growth, inclusion, and purpose-led leadership across the entire continent. The launch marks a significant step towards empowering women entrepreneurs and strengthening Uganda’s economic landscape.