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Business loans across Africa for exporters, traders and growing companies
USD financing for businesses in Nigeria, Ghana, Egypt, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and beyond. Kenya and South Africa have their own guides: Kenya and South Africa Kenya Africa.

Who we help in Africa
We help business owners prepare applications and connect with independent lenders that lend across borders, with expert advice to improve your chances of approval.
All financing is arranged in USD.
Exporters of commodities and produce
Cocoa, coffee, cashew, minerals and horticulture exporters that invoice in USD or euros.
Importers and distributors
Companies bringing in machinery, vehicles, medicines and consumer goods priced in dollars.
Energy and infrastructure suppliers
Solar installers, contractors and equipment suppliers serving growing demand.
Technology and services startups
Fintech, logistics and software companies in hubs such as Lagos, Accra, Cairo and Kigali.
Registration and documents
Lenders typically ask for:
- Company registration certificate from your national registry
- Tax registration or clearance certificate
- Six months of bank statements and, where used, mobile-money statements
- Directors’ ID or passport, a business plan and, for trading firms, contracts or purchase orders
Borrowing in USD
Currencies differ widely. The CFA franc zones in West and Central Africa are pegged to the euro, which steadies them against the euro but not against the dollar. Most others, such as the Nigerian naira, Ghanaian cedi and Egyptian pound, float and have moved sharply against the dollar. Some countries also limit access to foreign currency, so plan how you will obtain dollars to repay. Dollar earners such as exporters are far better matched. See multi-currency business loans.
Typical uses
Export and trade finance
Fund purchases before buyers pay with working capital loans.
Farms and agro-processing
Seasonal inputs and equipment are covered under farm and agricultural loans.
Solar and power backup
Reduce reliance on unreliable grid power with green energy loans.
An illustration
A Ghanaian cocoa processor sells to European buyers in USD and needs USD 150,000 for beans and packaging before the main season. Signed buyer contracts, steady bank statements and a short business plan show how it will repay. We help it present them and connect it with lenders that fund agricultural exporters; the lender sets the terms.
For illustration only. This is not an offer, rate or quote.
Local points to know
Rules differ by country: company registries, tax clearance, and exchange control or foreign-currency approval for cross-border loans. Your bank or a local adviser can confirm what applies to you. We do not give legal or tax advice, and some countries may be restricted.
As a small business owner, finding financing that fits my needs was a challenge until I came across JP Lending. Their online business loans are exactly what I needed to grow my business globally. The terms were flexible, and the process was faster than I expected!
Frequently asked questions
Which African countries can apply?
Business owners in many countries can apply. Eligibility depends on the lender and local rules, and some countries are restricted. Tell us where you are based.
Why are Kenya and South Africa separate?
They have their own registration, tax and exchange-control points, so each has a dedicated guide.
Can I borrow in a local currency?
Financing is arranged in USD. If your income is in a floating local currency, you carry the exchange-rate risk.
Related financing options and other regions
Working capital loans
Short-term funding to bridge payment gaps and seasonal swings.
Loan typeFarm & agricultural loans
Seasonal and equipment finance matched to growing and harvest cycles.
Loan typeGreen energy loans
Finance for solar, efficiency upgrades and clean-energy equipment.
RegionUnited States
USD financing for foreign-owned US companies and non-US founders.
RegionRest of Europe
UK and European companies borrowing in USD against euro, pound and other revenue.
RegionNetherlands
Dutch BVs and exporters borrowing in USD against euro revenue.
Ready to apply for business funding?
Complete our online application in minutes. No upfront fees.