Kenyan entrepreneurs and businesses are increasingly turning to alternative finance options beyond traditional banks to secure capital for growth, addressing a significant financing gap.

• The estimated MSME financing gap in Kenya is Sh2.5 trillion.
• Key alternative financiers include Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs), fintech lenders, venture capital firms, and development finance institutions (DFIs).
• These alternatives prioritize factors like savings history, cash flow, and community guarantees over traditional collateral, making financing more accessible.