Sycamore is a fintech start-up co-founded by Onyinye Okonji. They offer financial solutions for personal and business loans, peer-to-peer lending, investment opportunities, and bill payments ranging from #100,000 to #5 million. They assist entrepreneurs who want rapid same-day solutions to their financial needs at competitive rates. Beyond their financial services, they are passionate about reducing inequalities caused by income disparity and poverty and providing possibilities for decent employment to spur economic growth.
Sycamore offers various useful features to its users, such as quick loans that require no collateral and are available to salaried employees and registered business owners. Additionally, there is a peer-to-peer lending feature called “Loan Friends” that allows users to loan money to their friends and family members and request loans from them.
Another feature of Sycamore is the investment option, which allows users to earn up to 24% return per annum on their investments. This feature includes secured investments, real-time monitoring, dedicated managers, and flexible terms opportunities. Sycamore is available on both the Apple Store and Play Store.
Sycamore aims to provide a hassle-free and intuitive experience that empowers people to manage their finances more effectively. The platform offers creative solutions to cater to its users’ constantly changing needs.
When asked by The Guardian about improving women’s representation in high-impact leadership positions, Onyinye Okonji gave her thoughts; she said, “I really like the phrase ‘high-impact’ because it speaks to top performance and visibility. I believe strongly that women can be whatever they choose to be. However, we need to be responsible for our actions or inactions.”
“For better representation, more women must be brave and consistent with their work. They have to ensure that they use your social media platforms to toot their own horn. As women, we should be brave enough to take bigger roles in our careers and bigger projects in businesses and collaborate where necessary; however, before this bravery comes preparation. Take those masterclasses, learn from your mentor, read books that broaden your mental horizon, and leave your mind open and welcoming to new concepts.
There is no mediocrity in the big leagues, and I think it is rather insulting if things are handed to women for the sake of gender representation as opposed to merit. The women currently in top leadership positions have, in different aspects of their lives, sacrificed tremendously. We see and celebrate their industry today because of the work they consistently put in behind closed doors. Entrepreneurship is not all glamour, and it comes with a fair share of hard work, sweat, and tears for everyone. Be prepared.” She concluded.
Sycamore has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first fintech company in Nigeria to receive approval from the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC). This highlights their dedication to excellence. Additionally, Sycamore was awarded the title of ‘SME Enabler of the Year’ by Business Day in 2023.
Leave a Reply