4G Capital, a leading East African fintech company focused on serving micro and small enterprises (MSEs), has secured a $2 million strategic investment from GIF Growth, the Global Innovation Fund’s growth‑stage investment arm. The funding marks a significant milestone for the organization as it accelerates its mission to bridge the financing gap facing small businesses across the region.
The MSE sector is a critical pillar of East Africa’s economy, accounting for over 80% of total employment. Despite its importance, a large portion of these enterprises remains excluded from formal lending systems, often because of limited or incomplete financial records. This exclusion restricts their ability to access working capital needed for growth and long‑term stability.
Since launching in 2013, 4G Capital has positioned itself as a key financial partner to this underserved market. The company reports that it has disbursed more than $800 million in working‑capital loans to over 755,000 clients across Kenya and Uganda. Its model blends flexible credit with business training, helping entrepreneurs strengthen both their financial footing and management capabilities.
Commenting on the investment, 4G Capital founder and executive chairman Wayne Hennessy‑Barrett expressed confidence in the partnership’s impact:
We are delighted to partner with the Global Innovation Fund. This investment provides us with the right kind of capital to scale our model sustainably and expand access to working capital and training for underserved entrepreneurs, particularly women and youth‑led businesses.
The new funding is expected to support 4G Capital’s plans to deepen its reach, enhance its digital capabilities, and expand financial inclusion across East Africa’s vibrant small‑business ecosystem.
