Ticano Group, a creative financial solutions provider, has become a key player in financing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) supplying government, councils, parastatals, and large corporations across Botswana. The company addresses critical cash flow needs and offers logistics management to support service delivery nationwide.
Ticano’s Executive Director, Opelo Motswagae, emphasised the company’s unique approach to SME financing, which goes beyond traditional financial services.
“Unlike conventional financiers, we invest our profits into providing SMEs with speedy access to finance,” said Motswagae.
He explained that Ticano’s mission has always been to empower SMEs to deliver on time and create jobs while generating value for investors. “Our clients often express gratitude, saying, ‘In Ticano, we have a partner with a heart.’ We understand what it’s like to face financial challenges because we’ve been there,” he noted.
Headquartered in Gaborone, Ticano has expanded its footprint across Botswana, with branches in Palapye, Francistown, Maun, and Jwaneng. Plans are underway to open service points in Shakawe, Ghanzi, Tsabong, Lobatse, and additional locations, ensuring accessibility for all Batswana.
Ticano’s services include Purchase Order Financing, Invoice Discounting, Contract Financing, Disability Logistics Support, and financial advisory services for SMEs. Since its inception, the company has disbursed over P1 billion in loans to more than 8,500 suppliers, facilitating contracts worth over P3 billion. Remarkably, 90 percent of funded contracts are approved within 48 hours.
The company’s funding model prioritises the creditworthiness of the SME’s customer and the strength of the transaction rather than relying solely on the SME’s balance sheet. This approach has enabled SMEs to take on larger and more profitable purchase orders, spanning industries such as healthcare, education, agriculture, ICT, FMCG, and general supplies.
“The typical cash conversion cycles range from 30 to 120 days, with a cap of 180 days for imported large-transaction goods,” Motswagae explained.
In 2023, Ticano completed the De Beers Stanford Seed program, earning recognition as a transformative entity. Led by Motswagae, who brings 18 years of experience in corporate banking with institutions like FNB, Standard Chartered, and Stanbic Bank, Ticano is supported by a team with strong corporate governance practices.
Ticano’s financial success reflects its impact, with revenue growing from P2.2 million in 2018 to over P14 million in 2023. Loan disbursements increased from P14 million in 2018 to over P200 million in 2024. The company held a 30 percent market share as the largest purchase order financier for government contracts from April to October 2024.
Founded in 2015, Ticano Group has consistently delivered innovative and tailored financial solutions for growing businesses. Its commitment to SMEs and entrepreneurial spirit distinguishes it within Botswana’s financial services sector.
