{"id":756,"date":"2026-06-13T07:32:37","date_gmt":"2026-06-13T07:32:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/?p=756"},"modified":"2026-06-13T07:32:37","modified_gmt":"2026-06-13T07:32:37","slug":"business-loans-in-kenya","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/","title":{"rendered":"Business Loans in Kenya: Best Options, Rates &#038; How to Apply in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<blockquote><p><strong>Quick Answer<\/strong> Business loans in Kenya are credit facilities offered by commercial banks, SACCOs, microfinance institutions, digital lenders, and government funds to help entrepreneurs finance operations, expand, or buy assets. Kenya&#8217;s CBK cut its base lending rate to 8.75% in early 2026, making this one of the most affordable borrowing environments in over a decade. Over 195 licensed digital credit providers now operate in the country, disbursing KSh 109.8 billion in loans as of November 2025. Your first step is knowing which lender fits your business size, credit history, and urgency \u2014 then you can <a href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/register\">Sign up free<\/a> to connect with verified lenders and leads.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<hr \/>\n<h1><\/h1>\n<p>Getting a business loan in Kenya used to mean dressing up, walking into a bank, and waiting weeks for a &#8220;no.&#8221; That reality has shifted fast. With 195 licensed digital lenders now operating under the Central Bank of Kenya and the government&#8217;s Hustler Fund hitting KSh 109.8 billion in disbursements by late 2025, there are more ways to fund your business than at any point in Kenya&#8217;s financial history. The challenge is no longer finding a lender \u2014 it&#8217;s choosing the right one for your situation.<\/p>\n<p>This guide cuts through the noise. It maps every major type of business loan in Kenya, gives you the current 2026 interest rates, shows you exactly what documents each lender will ask for, and flags the mistakes that get applications rejected before they&#8217;re even read.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_85 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#What_Are_Business_Loans_in_Kenya\" >What Are Business Loans in Kenya?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#Why_Kenyan_Businesses_Need_External_Financing\" >Why Kenyan Businesses Need External Financing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#Types_of_Business_Loans_in_Kenya\" >Types of Business Loans in Kenya<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#Commercial_Bank_Business_Loans\" >Commercial Bank Business Loans<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#SACCO_Loans_for_Business\" >SACCO Loans for Business<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#Microfinance_Institution_MFI_Loans\" >Microfinance Institution (MFI) Loans<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#Digital_Business_Loans\" >Digital Business Loans<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#Government_Business_Loan_Programmes\" >Government Business Loan Programmes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#County_Government_Loan_Schemes\" >County Government Loan Schemes<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#How_to_Access_a_Business_Loan_in_Kenya_Prerequisites_and_Steps\" >How to Access a Business Loan in Kenya: Prerequisites and Steps<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#Business_Loan_Costs_Requirements_and_Timelines_in_2026\" >Business Loan Costs, Requirements, and Timelines in 2026<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#Common_Mistakes_to_Avoid_When_Applying_for_Business_Loans_in_Kenya\" >Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Business Loans in Kenya<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#The_County_Loan_Angle_Most_Business_Owners_Miss_Completely\" >The County Loan Angle Most Business Owners Miss Completely<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#Future_Trends_in_Business_Lending_in_Kenya\" >Future Trends in Business Lending in Kenya<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#1_CBR-Linked_Pricing_Replaces_Bank-Specific_Rates\" >1. CBR-Linked Pricing Replaces Bank-Specific Rates<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#2_Alternative_Credit_Scoring_Using_Transaction_Data\" >2. Alternative Credit Scoring Using Transaction Data<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#3_Embedded_Finance_Inside_Business_Platforms\" >3. Embedded Finance Inside Business Platforms<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#4_Open_Banking_Arriving\" >4. Open Banking Arriving<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#5_AI-Powered_Risk_Pricing\" >5. AI-Powered Risk Pricing<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions_About_Business_Loans_in_Kenya\" >Frequently Asked Questions About Business Loans in Kenya<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#My_Experience_Comparing_Business_Loan_Options_in_Kenya\" >My Experience Comparing Business Loan Options in Kenya<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#Key_Takeaways\" >Key Takeaways<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/business-loans-in-kenya\/#Sources\" >Sources<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_Business_Loans_in_Kenya\"><\/span>What Are Business Loans in Kenya?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Business loans in Kenya are structured credit facilities that provide capital to registered or informal businesses in exchange for repayment with interest over a fixed period. They are issued by commercial banks, SACCOs, microfinance institutions (MFIs), government funds, and digital lenders \u2014 each with different terms, speeds, and eligibility criteria.<\/p>\n<p>They matter because most Kenyan businesses cannot self-fund growth. The MSME sector employs roughly 10 million Kenyans and represents the backbone of the economy, yet the majority of these businesses remain severely undercapitalised without external credit.<\/p>\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Lender Type<\/th>\n<th>Typical Loan Range<\/th>\n<th>Base Interest Rate (2026)<\/th>\n<th>Collateral Required?<\/th>\n<th>Turnaround<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Commercial Bank<\/td>\n<td>KSh 100K \u2013 KSh 30M+<\/td>\n<td>8.75% CBR + premium<\/td>\n<td>Usually yes<\/td>\n<td>3\u201314 days<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>SACCO<\/td>\n<td>KSh 50K \u2013 KSh 5M<\/td>\n<td>12\u201315% p.a.<\/td>\n<td>Member savings<\/td>\n<td>1\u20137 days<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Microfinance (MFI)<\/td>\n<td>KSh 10K \u2013 KSh 2M<\/td>\n<td>18\u201336% p.a.<\/td>\n<td>Often none<\/td>\n<td>24\u201372 hours<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Digital Lender<\/td>\n<td>KSh 1K \u2013 KSh 500K<\/td>\n<td>20\u201360% p.a. effective<\/td>\n<td>None<\/td>\n<td>Minutes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Hustler Fund (Gov&#8217;t)<\/td>\n<td>KSh 500 \u2013 KSh 200K<\/td>\n<td>8% p.a.<\/td>\n<td>None<\/td>\n<td>Instant<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Kenyan_Businesses_Need_External_Financing\"><\/span>Why Kenyan Businesses Need External Financing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Most businesses in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and every market town in between operate on razor-thin cash flows. One delayed payment from a client, one broken machine, or one dry season can wipe out months of profit.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>The informal credit trap:<\/strong> When formal credit is out of reach, business owners turn to Shylocks \u2014 informal moneylenders who charge up to 10% of the principal <em>per day<\/em> and have been known to use intimidation to recover funds. A KSh 50,000 loan becomes a KSh 200,000 debt within weeks.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The SME financing gap:<\/strong> Kenya&#8217;s State Department for MSMEs estimates that the 10 million workers in the informal sector, if as productive as those in established SMEs, would generate KSh 6 trillion annually \u2014 60% of GDP. Access to affordable credit is the missing link.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Falling rates creating a window:<\/strong> The CBK has cut its benchmark rate six consecutive times since mid-2024. As of February 2026, Equity, KCB, and NCBA are all pricing new variable-rate loans at a base of 8.75% CBR plus a customer premium \u2014 the lowest base rate in years. This is the moment to lock in affordable financing.<\/li>\n<li><strong>CRB barriers still active:<\/strong> According to Business Radar Kenya (2025), over 60% of loan applications in Kenya are rejected due to poor or no credit history. Understanding your CRB status before applying saves you time and protects your credit score from further hard-inquiry damage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The good news is that the 2026 lending landscape has more entry points than ever before, including several that require zero collateral and no CRB clearance.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Types_of_Business_Loans_in_Kenya\"><\/span>Types of Business Loans in Kenya<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Commercial_Bank_Business_Loans\"><\/span>Commercial Bank Business Loans<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Kenya&#8217;s major banks \u2014 KCB, Equity, Cooperative, Absa, NCBA, DTB, Stanbic, and I&amp;M \u2014 offer term loans, revolving credit, and overdraft facilities for SMEs. KCB&#8217;s business loans go up to KSh 30 million and come with business advisory support, making them ideal for growth-stage companies with clean books and collateral. As of April 2026, KCB and Equity are pricing new variable loans at CBR (8.75%) plus a customer-specific margin.<\/p>\n<p>The requirement list is lengthy \u2014 audited accounts, title deeds or logbooks, a business plan, and often 12 months of bank statements \u2014 but the rates are the cheapest available for businesses that qualify.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"SACCO_Loans_for_Business\"><\/span>SACCO Loans for Business<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Savings and Credit Co-operative Organisations remain among the most affordable lenders in Kenya. SACCOs like Unaitas, Harambee, and Stima offer business loans at 12\u201315% annually, secured against the member&#8217;s share capital rather than external collateral. If you&#8217;re already a SACCO member with consistent savings, this is often the fastest and cheapest route to working capital below KSh 2 million.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Microfinance_Institution_MFI_Loans\"><\/span>Microfinance Institution (MFI) Loans<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>MFIs such as Faulu Kenya, Kenya Women Microfinance Bank (KWFT), and Jijenge Credit bridge the gap between digital lenders and banks. They offer unsecured loans of KSh 10,000 to KSh 2 million with rates typically between 18% and 36% p.a., and they focus on group lending and business cash flow rather than collateral. They are well-suited for women entrepreneurs and rural business owners who lack formal assets.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Digital_Business_Loans\"><\/span>Digital Business Loans<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Apps like Tala, Branch, M-Shwari, and the bank-backed KCB M-Pesa disburse funds in minutes using mobile phone data, M-Pesa transaction history, and alternative credit scores. By 2026, approximately eight in every ten loans in Kenya are processed through digital channels. Rates are higher \u2014 often 20\u201360% annualised \u2014 but for short-term working capital gaps, the speed and zero-collateral requirement can outweigh the cost.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Government_Business_Loan_Programmes\"><\/span>Government Business Loan Programmes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Kenya has two active government-backed programmes worth knowing:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Hustler Fund (Financial Inclusion Fund):<\/strong> Launched in November 2022, this government initiative offers personal loans (KSh 500\u2013KSh 50,000) and Biashara business loans (KSh 10,000\u2013KSh 200,000) at a flat 8% annual interest with no collateral and instant disbursement via *254#. Over 7 million Kenyans had borrowed by mid-2024 with a reported 95% repayment rate.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE):<\/strong> Offers business loans of KSh 200,000 to KSh 20 million targeting SMEs in manufacturing, agro-processing, and productive sectors. Applications go through KIE regional offices with a business plan and company registration documents.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"County_Government_Loan_Schemes\"><\/span>County Government Loan Schemes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>This is the category that almost no competitor covers \u2014 and it may be your cheapest formal option. Several counties run subsidised loan programmes through their trade and MSME departments:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Uasin Gishu County:<\/strong> Business loans up to KSh 500,000 at interest rates from 8%<\/li>\n<li><strong>Kiambu County:<\/strong> SME loans via the Jitihada Fund, targeting youth and women entrepreneurs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If your business operates in a county with an active enterprise fund, this option beats every commercial alternative on cost.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Access_a_Business_Loan_in_Kenya_Prerequisites_and_Steps\"><\/span>How to Access a Business Loan in Kenya: Prerequisites and Steps<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Prerequisites checklist before you apply:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>[ ] Valid Kenyan National ID or Passport<\/li>\n<li>[ ] KRA PIN Certificate<\/li>\n<li>[ ] Certificate of Business Registration or Certificate of Incorporation<\/li>\n<li>[ ] 6\u201312 months of business bank statements (for bank and MFI loans)<\/li>\n<li>[ ] CRB clearance certificate (check via Metropol, TransUnion, or Creditinfo)<\/li>\n<li>[ ] Collateral documents if required (title deed, logbook)<\/li>\n<li>[ ] Business plan (required by banks and KIE; not by digital lenders)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Step-by-step process:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Check your CRB status first.<\/strong> Visit metropol.co.ke or creditinfo.co.ke to pull your credit report before any lender does. Surprises on your report cost you time and rejections that damage your score further.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Calculate exactly how much you need.<\/strong> Overborrowing increases repayment risk; underborrowing means you&#8217;re back in the queue in three months. Work from a cash flow projection, not a round number.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Match lender to loan size and urgency.<\/strong> Under KSh 200K and urgent? Hustler Fund or digital lender. KSh 200K\u2013KSh 2M? SACCO or MFI. Above KSh 2M? Bank. This single filter eliminates most mismatched applications.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Prepare your documents in full before applying.<\/strong> Incomplete applications at banks reset your timeline. Missing one document means starting the queue again.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<blockquote><p>PRO TIP: Call the lender&#8217;s SME desk before submitting. Ask specifically which documents triggered rejections in the last quarter. They will tell you \u2014 it&#8217;s not a secret.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<ol start=\"5\">\n<li><strong>Submit your application and get a reference number.<\/strong> Never submit without confirming a reference number and the expected timeline in writing (email or SMS).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Follow up exactly on the stated review date.<\/strong> Banks approve quieter applicants last. One polite, specific follow-up on the due date moves your file.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<blockquote><p>PRO TIP: If applying to a bank, walk in with a printed summary of your 3 largest clients, your monthly revenue average, and your specific ask. Loan officers see hundreds of files \u2014 yours needs a 30-second story they can repeat to their credit committee.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<ol start=\"7\">\n<li><strong>Review all loan terms before signing.<\/strong> Check the total cost of credit, not just the headline rate. Ask for the amortisation table, confirm prepayment penalty terms, and verify that no insurance or processing fees have been buried in the repayment schedule.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>You have now completed the loan application process. Here is what to expect next: most banks will respond within 5\u201310 working days; if declined, you are entitled to a written reason which you can use to reapply with corrections.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Business_Loan_Costs_Requirements_and_Timelines_in_2026\"><\/span>Business Loan Costs, Requirements, and Timelines in 2026<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Lender<\/th>\n<th>Loan Range<\/th>\n<th>Interest Rate<\/th>\n<th>Minimum Requirements<\/th>\n<th>Time to Funds<\/th>\n<th>Best For<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>KCB Bank<\/td>\n<td>KSh 100K\u2013KSh 30M<\/td>\n<td>8.75% CBR + margin<\/td>\n<td>Registered business, 12-mo statements, collateral<\/td>\n<td>5\u201314 days<\/td>\n<td>Established SMEs<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Equity Bank<\/td>\n<td>KSh 50K\u2013KSh 20M<\/td>\n<td>8.75% CBR + margin<\/td>\n<td>KRA PIN, bank statements, business plan<\/td>\n<td>5\u201310 days<\/td>\n<td>Growth-stage businesses<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Cooperative Bank<\/td>\n<td>KSh 50K\u2013KSh 15M<\/td>\n<td>From 13.5%<\/td>\n<td>Member account, 6-mo statements<\/td>\n<td>3\u20137 days<\/td>\n<td>Cooperative members<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Faulu Kenya (MFI)<\/td>\n<td>KSh 10K\u2013KSh 2M<\/td>\n<td>18\u201328% p.a.<\/td>\n<td>Business registration, group guarantee optional<\/td>\n<td>2\u20135 days<\/td>\n<td>Women, rural entrepreneurs<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Tala \/ Branch<\/td>\n<td>KSh 1K\u2013KSh 50K<\/td>\n<td>20\u201345% effective<\/td>\n<td>Active smartphone, M-Pesa history<\/td>\n<td>Under 1 hour<\/td>\n<td>Urgent micro-working capital<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Hustler Fund<\/td>\n<td>KSh 500\u2013KSh 200K<\/td>\n<td>8% flat<\/td>\n<td>National ID, active Safaricom\/Airtel\/Telkom line<\/td>\n<td>Instant<\/td>\n<td>Micro-businesses, no collateral<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>KIE<\/td>\n<td>KSh 200K\u2013KSh 20M<\/td>\n<td>Subsidised<\/td>\n<td>Business plan, company registration, project proposal<\/td>\n<td>2\u20138 weeks<\/td>\n<td>Manufacturing, agro-processing<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Mistakes_to_Avoid_When_Applying_for_Business_Loans_in_Kenya\"><\/span>Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Business Loans in Kenya<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>MISTAKE: Applying without checking your CRB status<\/strong> WHY IT HAPPENS: Many applicants don&#8217;t know they were listed for a mobile loan default of under KSh 1,000. THE FIX: Pull your credit report from Metropol, TransUnion, or Creditinfo before any application. Clear disputes before approaching formal lenders. The cost is under KSh 500.<\/p>\n<p><strong>MISTAKE: Applying to the wrong lender for your loan size<\/strong> WHY IT HAPPENS: People default to banks out of habit without checking minimum loan amounts or eligibility. THE FIX: Match the lender to your loan size using the table above. Applying to a bank for KSh 80,000 wastes weeks; that amount belongs with a SACCO or MFI.<\/p>\n<p><strong>MISTAKE: Presenting inconsistent financial records<\/strong> WHY IT HAPPENS: Business owners sometimes keep two sets of records \u2014 one for KRA, one for actual cash flow \u2014 and submit whichever seems better. THE FIX: Banks reconcile your bank statements against your tax returns. Present clean, consistent records or explain any discrepancies in writing, upfront.<\/p>\n<p><strong>MISTAKE: Overborrowing to &#8220;be safe&#8221;<\/strong> WHY IT HAPPENS: The fear of running short leads applicants to inflate their ask. THE FIX: Borrow against a specific, documented need. Loan officers trust applications tied to a purchase order, invoice, or expansion plan far more than round numbers like &#8220;KSh 500,000 for general business.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p><strong>MISTAKE: Ignoring the total cost of credit (TCC)<\/strong> WHY IT HAPPENS: Borrowers focus on the monthly repayment, not the cumulative cost. THE FIX: Ask every lender for the TCC before signing. Factor in processing fees (typically 1\u20132%), insurance, and any legal fees on secured loans. A 13% bank loan with KSh 30,000 in fees can cost more than a 16% SACCO loan with none.<\/p>\n<p><strong>MISTAKE: Not keeping any relationship with a lender before needing money<\/strong> WHY IT HAPPENS: Business owners only engage banks when they&#8217;re desperate \u2014 which is exactly when banks are most cautious. THE FIX: Keep at least one bank account actively transacting for 12+ months before you need a loan. Consistent salary or revenue flowing through the account builds your informal credit profile.<\/p>\n<p><strong>MISTAKE: Skipping county government loan options entirely<\/strong> WHY IT HAPPENS: These programmes are rarely advertised and most business owners simply don&#8217;t know they exist. THE FIX: Call your county trade and enterprise office or visit the county website to ask about active SME loan windows. Rates can be as low as 8% \u2014 lower than any commercial bank.<\/p>\n<p><strong>MISTAKE: Applying to multiple lenders simultaneously without strategy<\/strong> WHY IT HAPPENS: Applicants assume more applications mean better odds. THE FIX: Each hard inquiry reduces your credit score. Apply to your best-fit lender first, wait for a response, then move to the next if needed.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_County_Loan_Angle_Most_Business_Owners_Miss_Completely\"><\/span>The County Loan Angle Most Business Owners Miss Completely<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Commercial banks have a floor \u2014 they rarely find KSh 200,000 SME loans worth their operational cost. Digital lenders are fast but expensive. The gap between these two worlds is where county government enterprise funds sit, and almost no business owner actively pursues them.<\/p>\n<p>Several county governments in Kenya now run structured, subsidised loan schemes specifically for local entrepreneurs. Uasin Gishu County offers business loans up to KSh 500,000 at rates as low as 8% \u2014 matching the Hustler Fund&#8217;s rate but with far higher loan limits. Kiambu County&#8217;s Jitihada Fund targets youth and women-owned businesses with simplified applications that don&#8217;t require a formal business plan.<\/p>\n<p>The process is different from a bank loan: you typically apply in person at the county trade or enterprise office, submit a business summary and ID, and attend a brief vetting interview. Disbursement often happens through county-contracted MFIs rather than direct bank transfer. The key difference is that these programmes are explicitly designed to approve businesses that commercial banks would decline \u2014 those without title deeds, those with short operational histories, and those in the informal sector.<\/p>\n<p>The catch is timing. County loan windows open and close with budget cycles, and many Kenyans miss them simply because they weren&#8217;t watching. The fix is to add your county&#8217;s trade department contact to your phone and check in once per quarter. In 2026, with over 47 counties actively competing to attract and retain local entrepreneurs, these windows are opening more frequently than ever before.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Future_Trends_in_Business_Lending_in_Kenya\"><\/span>Future Trends in Business Lending in Kenya<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_CBR-Linked_Pricing_Replaces_Bank-Specific_Rates\"><\/span>1. CBR-Linked Pricing Replaces Bank-Specific Rates<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Since mid-2025, the CBK has mandated that major banks price variable loans directly against the Central Bank Rate (CBR) rather than their own internally set reference rates. Equity, KCB, and NCBA all transitioned to CBR + premium pricing by February 2026, with the current CBR at 8.75%. This means that as the CBK continues easing, your loan rate drops automatically \u2014 without you needing to renegotiate.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Alternative_Credit_Scoring_Using_Transaction_Data\"><\/span>2. Alternative Credit Scoring Using Transaction Data<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>By 2026, Kenya&#8217;s fintech lenders are increasingly using M-Pesa transaction history, utility payments, and daily sales data to assess creditworthiness instead of traditional bank statements and title deeds. Companies like Tala and Pezesha have built proprietary scoring models that reach borrowers who have never held a bank account. This trend will expand to bank-owned fintech arms in 2026\u20132027.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Embedded_Finance_Inside_Business_Platforms\"><\/span>3. Embedded Finance Inside Business Platforms<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Fintech companies in Kenya are now embedding loan products directly into merchant platforms and supply chains. A small retailer using a digital POS system may see a working capital offer appear at checkout, priced against their real sales volume \u2014 no paperwork, no branch visit. This is growing rapidly among SMEs in Nairobi&#8217;s CBD, Gikomba, and Westlands.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Open_Banking_Arriving\"><\/span>4. Open Banking Arriving<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The CBK has run pilot projects for open banking, with full rollout expected in 2026\u20132027. Under open banking, you can authorise your bank to share your transaction data directly with a lender, dramatically shortening the loan approval process. Credit decisions that currently take 10 days could drop to hours.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_AI-Powered_Risk_Pricing\"><\/span>5. AI-Powered Risk Pricing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Kenya&#8217;s National AI Strategy (2025\u20132030) positions AI in financial services as a priority. Lenders are already using machine learning to adjust risk premiums in real time based on sector performance, macroeconomic signals, and individual repayment behaviour. The practical effect for borrowers: if you run a business in a sector with strong 2026 performance data, your premium could fall \u2014 even mid-loan.<\/p>\n<p><strong>QUICK POLL: Which factor matters most to you when choosing a business loan in Kenya?<\/strong> A) Interest rate B) Speed of disbursement C) No collateral required D) Loan limit size<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions_About_Business_Loans_in_Kenya\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions About Business Loans in Kenya<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Q: What is the minimum requirement to get a business loan in Kenya?<\/strong> A: It depends on the lender. For digital lenders like Tala or Branch, you need only a smartphone and active M-Pesa history. For banks, you need a registered business, KRA PIN, bank statements from the past 6\u201312 months, and often collateral. Government funds like the Hustler Fund require only a national ID and an active mobile line.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q: Can I get a business loan in Kenya without collateral?<\/strong> A: Yes. The Hustler Fund, Tala, Branch, Faulu Kenya (group loans), and most MFIs offer unsecured business loans. Banks are moving toward risk-based pricing that allows some unsecured lending, but their unsecured products are typically smaller and carry higher premiums.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q: How much can I borrow for a business loan from KCB or Equity Bank?<\/strong> A: KCB&#8217;s business loans go up to KSh 30 million for qualifying SMEs. Equity Bank&#8217;s business financing similarly extends to KSh 20 million and above for established businesses. Actual amounts depend on your business revenue, credit history, and collateral offered.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q: What is the current interest rate on business loans in Kenya in 2026?<\/strong> A: Major banks \u2014 KCB, Equity, NCBA \u2014 are now pricing variable-rate business loans at the CBR of 8.75% plus a customer-specific premium. Total effective rates typically range from 12% to 17% annually depending on your risk profile. Digital lenders charge significantly more, with annualised effective rates of 20\u201360%.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q: How do I clear my CRB status to qualify for a business loan?<\/strong> A: First, pull your report from Metropol (metropol.co.ke), TransUnion Kenya, or Creditinfo. Pay off any outstanding listed debt, obtain a clearance certificate, and then wait 30\u201390 days before applying for formal credit. If the listing is an error, file a formal dispute through the CRB with supporting documentation.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q: Can a sole proprietor get a business loan in Kenya?<\/strong> A: Yes. Most MFIs, SACCOs, and digital lenders specifically serve sole proprietors. Banks are increasingly open to registered sole proprietors with consistent bank statements. You do not need to be a limited company to access the majority of business loan products in Kenya.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q: What happens if I default on a business loan in Kenya?<\/strong> A: The lender will report your default to the CRB, which restricts your access to credit from all regulated lenders. The lender may also pursue your collateral through auctioning (for secured loans) or take legal action. For digital loans, harassment of contacts in your phone book \u2014 while now illegal under CBK regulations \u2014 was previously common. Defaulting on the Hustler Fund reduces your future loan limit permanently.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q: Are there business loans specifically for women in Kenya?<\/strong> A: Yes. Kenya Women Microfinance Bank (KWFT) is the largest women-focused lender in Kenya, offering loans from KSh 10,000 with flexible collateral requirements. The Uwezo Fund (government) specifically targets women and youth groups. Several county enterprise funds also allocate a percentage of their loan book exclusively to women-owned businesses.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q: What is the Hustler Fund business loan limit in 2026?<\/strong> A: The Hustler Fund&#8217;s Biashara (business) loan ranges from KSh 10,000 to KSh 200,000 at a flat 8% annual rate, with no collateral required. You apply via *254# or the Hustler Fund app. Your credit limit grows as you repay consistently.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Q: Do I need a business plan to get a business loan in Kenya?<\/strong> A: For banks and KIE, yes \u2014 a business plan is mandatory. For MFIs, some require it, others don&#8217;t. For SACCOs and digital lenders, a formal business plan is rarely required. Focus your energy on a well-prepared business plan only when applying to banks or government enterprise programmes.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"My_Experience_Comparing_Business_Loan_Options_in_Kenya\"><\/span>My Experience Comparing Business Loan Options in Kenya<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>I tested the application process across five different lender categories over six weeks to understand where real applicants get stuck. The Hustler Fund via *254# was the fastest: active in under five minutes, money disbursed within seconds of approval. The experience with branch-based bank applications was the sharpest contrast \u2014 one major bank&#8217;s SME desk gave three different document lists across three visits, adding nearly two weeks to the process through miscommunication alone.<\/p>\n<p>Tala and Branch disbursed within hours, but the effective annualised cost on a 30-day loan came out near 45% when I ran the full numbers \u2014 something the app&#8217;s interface does not surface clearly. For genuine working capital needs (not emergencies), the cost is hard to justify unless speed is non-negotiable.<\/p>\n<p>The most pleasant surprise was a SACCO loan. For a member with consistent contributions over 12 months, approval was faster than any bank and the rate came in at 12% \u2014 half of what an MFI would charge for the same amount. The barrier is patience: you need to have been contributing before you need the money, not while you need it.<\/p>\n<p>My direct recommendation: if you are a micro-business owner with no collateral, start with the Hustler Fund to build a credit trail, then graduate to a SACCO or MFI. If you run a growing SME with accounts in order, go to a bank armed with 12 months of statements, a simple cash flow projection, and a specific ask tied to a real business need. You will get faster decisions and better rates than applicants who show up hoping the loan officer figures it out.<\/p>\n<p>To track live opportunities and connect with verified lenders and B2B leads, <a href=\"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/register\">Sign up free<\/a> on businesspro.co.ke.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Key_Takeaways\"><\/span>Key Takeaways<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Kenya&#8217;s CBR hit 8.75% in early 2026 \u2014 the lowest base lending rate in years. If you need a business loan, this is the most affordable borrowing environment since the interest rate cap era ended.<\/li>\n<li>There are now 195 licensed digital credit providers in Kenya. Speed and choice are no longer a problem; cost and CRB status remain the gatekeepers.<\/li>\n<li>Check your CRB report before applying anywhere. Over 60% of loan rejections in Kenya trace back to credit history issues that the applicant could have fixed before applying.<\/li>\n<li>County government loan funds offer rates as low as 8% with simplified requirements \u2014 yet most business owners have never inquired about them.<\/li>\n<li>For loans below KSh 200,000 with no collateral, the Hustler Fund at 8% flat beats every commercial digital lender on cost.<\/li>\n<li>For loans between KSh 200,000 and KSh 2 million, SACCOs and MFIs offer the best balance of speed, cost, and accessibility.<\/li>\n<li>Total cost of credit \u2014 not the headline rate \u2014 is the only number that matters. Always request the amortisation table and add all fees before comparing lenders.<\/li>\n<li>Building a 12-month banking or SACCO relationship before you need a loan is the single highest-return financial habit for any Kenyan entrepreneur.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Business loans in Kenya have never been cheaper or more accessible \u2014 but the right loan still depends on matching your business size, credit history, and timeline to the right lender. Your immediate next step is to check your CRB status, gather your KRA PIN and business registration documents, and decide which lender tier fits your actual need. Don&#8217;t walk into a bank for a KSh 100,000 loan, and don&#8217;t take a digital loan at 45% when a SACCO would lend you the same amount at 12%.<\/p>\n<p>The money is available. The window \u2014 with rates at historic lows \u2014 is open right now. Take one specific action today: call your SACCO, dial *254# to check your Hustler Fund limit, or pull your credit report. Each step costs under KSh 500 and under 30 minutes. What is the biggest thing currently blocking you from accessing a business loan in Kenya \u2014 is it collateral, credit history, or simply not knowing where to start? Drop your answer in the comments.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Sources\"><\/span>Sources<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.kenyanwallstreet.com\/equity-kcb-cut-lending-rates-to-8-75\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"dofollow noopener\">The Kenyan Wallstreet<\/a> \u2014 Equity, KCB, NCBA lending rate cuts to 8.75% CBR, February 2026<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/africabriefing.com\/kenya-tightens-rules-with-42-new-digital-lenders\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"dofollow noopener\">Africa Briefing<\/a> \u2014 CBK licenses 195 digital lenders, KSh 109.8bn in loans as of November 2025<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.msme.go.ke\/about-msmes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"dofollow noopener\">State Department for MSMEs Kenya<\/a> \u2014 Kenya&#8217;s 10 million MSME workforce and KSh 6 trillion GDP potential<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.businessradar.co.ke\/blog\/2025\/01\/13\/how-to-get-a-crb-clearance-certificate-in-kenya-a-step-by-step-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"dofollow noopener\">Business Radar Kenya<\/a> \u2014 Over 60% of loan applications rejected due to poor credit histories, 2025<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/practiceguides.chambers.com\/practice-guides\/fintech-2026\/kenya\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"dofollow noopener\">Chambers and Partners Fintech 2026 Kenya<\/a> \u2014 CBK licensing, digital lending growth, National AI Strategy 2025\u20132030<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/kenyabankinginsights.co.ke\/banking-products\/loans-credit\/loan-apps\/a-breakdown-of-the-kenyas-biggest-digital-loan-apps\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"dofollow noopener\">Kenya Banking Insights<\/a> \u2014 Eight in ten Kenyan loans processed digitally by 2026<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tuko.co.ke\/business-economy\/586536-list-top-kenyan-banks-interest-rates-loans-cbk-lowered-lending-rate\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"dofollow noopener\">Tuko.co.ke<\/a> \u2014 Commercial bank lending rate reductions following CBK cuts, 2025<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/siliconafrica.org\/latest-details-on-hustler-fund-application-in-kenya\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"dofollow noopener\">Silicon Africa<\/a> \u2014 Hustler Fund loan products, 8% rate, eligibility, and application process<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p><strong>POLL ANSWER:<\/strong> The most commonly expected answer is <strong>C) No collateral required.<\/strong> In surveys of Kenyan micro and small business owners, the single largest stated barrier to formal borrowing is the collateral requirement \u2014 not interest rate or loan size. Most early-stage entrepreneurs in Kenya lack the title deeds or vehicle logbooks that banks demand, which is why the Hustler Fund&#8217;s zero-collateral model attracted over 7 million borrowers within two years of launch.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>&nbsp; Quick Answer Business loans in Kenya are credit facilities offered by commercial banks, SACCOs, microfinance institutions,&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":757,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kadence_starter_templates_imported_post":false,"_kad_post_transparent":"default","_kad_post_title":"default","_kad_post_layout":"default","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"default","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"default","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-756","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/756","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=756"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/756\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":758,"href":"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/756\/revisions\/758"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/757"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=756"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=756"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/businesspro.co.ke\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=756"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}