How to Get a Business Loan in Kenya via Tala (Step-by-Step Guide)

How to Get a Business Loan in Kenya via Tala

Starting or growing a small business in Kenya can be tough—especially when access to capital is limited. Traditional bank loans require security, paperwork, and long waiting periods. That’s where Tala comes in: a mobile-based lending platform that offers quick, unsecured loans to Kenyans, including small business owners, hustlers, and side giggers.

Whether you’re running a salon in Nairobi, a grocery shop in Kisumu, or selling mitumba in Mombasa, Tala can help you access flexible credit without the stress of collateral.

What is Tala?

Tala is a digital lending app that provides fast, short-term loans through your smartphone. It launched in Kenya in 2014 and has become one of the most trusted mobile loan providers in the country. With Tala, you can borrow money directly to your MPESA account and repay it in a few weeks.

Tala loans are ideal for:

• Small business owners
• Side hustlers (e.g. online sellers, boda boda riders)
• Self-employed Kenyans
• Emergency cash needs

How to Apply for a Tala Business Loan in Kenya

Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started with Tala and receiving your first loan:

Step 1: Download the Tala App

• Go to the Google Play Store
• Search for “Tala Kenya”
• Download and install the app
  Tala on Play Store

Note: Tala is only available on Android smartphones (not iPhones).

Step 2: Register Your Account

• Open the app and enter your phone number
• Follow prompts to set up your account
• Provide basic details: name, ID number, occupation, income level

Step 3: Loan Limit Assessment

Tala will analyze your:

• MPESA transaction history
• App usage behavior
• Creditworthiness (based on internal algorithms)

After a short wait, Tala will show you your initial loan limit.

Step 4: Apply for a Business Loan in Kenya via Tala

• Choose the amount you need (within your limit)
• Select your preferred repayment period (21 or 30 days)
• Confirm and accept the terms

Funds are sent instantly to your MPESA wallet!

How to Get a Business Loan in Kenya via Tala| How Much Can You Borrow ?

Tala does not charge hidden fees, but late payments attract a penalty and affect your future limit.

Real-Life Example: Small Business Boost

Samuel runs a mobile phone accessories kiosk in Nakuru. He needed KSh 6,000 to restock chargers and earphones. He borrowed from Tala, repaid in 21 days, and his next limit was increased to KSh 9,000.

How to Repay Your Tala Loan

1. Go to MPESA > Lipa na MPESA > Paybill
2. Enter Paybill Number: 851900
3. Enter your Tala-registered phone number as the account number
4. Enter amount and MPESA PIN
5. Confirm payment

Tala sends you an SMS confirmation immediately.

Tips to Increase Your Loan Limit

• Repay your loan on time or early
• Use Tala loans for business growth, not consumption
• Keep your MPESA account active with regular transactions
• Update the app for latest features and improved scoring

Is Tala Safe and Legit?

Yes! Tala is a licensed digital lender in Kenya and complies with data privacy and Central Bank regulations. It does not ask for collateral, and your personal data is encrypted.

Over 5 million Kenyans have downloaded Tala
Rated 4.5+ stars on Google Play
Transparent interest rates and repayment terms

Tala vs Other Collateral-Free Loans in Kenya

Final Thoughts

If you’re an entrepreneur, side hustler, or small business owner looking for a quick business loan in Kenya without collateral, Tala is a reliable option. With no paperwork, fast disbursement, and an easy app interface, Tala makes credit accessible to the people who need it most.

Use Tala responsibly to build your financial profile, grow your business, and unlock higher credit limits over time.