Credisensa, our solution for empowering SMEs in Latin America

Credisensa, a joint collaboration between Disensa and Maqer - our open innovation platform - aims to democratize banking and financial services. Powered by fintech startups, including Centeo, Aliatu and Prestanómico among others, Credisensa offers retailers (B2B) and end-customers (B2C) affordable credit solutions.

“Our typical customers are low-to middle-income earners between 35-55 years old, often in need of urgent home improvement, such as fixing a leaking roof or expanding their home for a new baby. Unfortunately, there is a common misperception among Mexicans that getting credit is difficult. I want to change that,” said a B2C fintech startup CEO and founder in Mexico City, Mexico.

For businesses, restricted access to banking services often results in lost sales opportunities. This is the unfortunate reality for many family-owned businesses, including many franchisees of Disensa - Holcim’s retail network in Latin America. “Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) do not have the credit history or documentation requested by the traditional banks. Credisensa understands our needs and provides affordable and accessible credits,” said a Disensa retailer in El Conchero, Mexico.

According to the World Bank, around 45 of the world’s adult population has no access to banking services. Some because of their lack of credit history and low income, others from distrust, inexperience or prohibitively high banking fees. The limited number of banks in rural areas can also be a factor.

Credisensa, a joint collaboration between Disensa and Maqer - Holcim’s open innovation platform - aims to democratize banking and financial services. Powered by fintech startups, Credisensa offers retailers (B2B) and end-customers (B2C) affordable credit solutions.

“Having access to credit is crucial. Small business owners like myself often have scarce resources. Credisensa is a great ally as they promote growth by helping us to buy products on credit. This way we never have to miss out on a sales opportunity,” said a Disensa retailer in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Credisensa’s loan application is easy, fully digitized and approved (or declined) rapidly. We guarantee our retailers will receive their credit within 48 hours or less provided their application is approved.

Adopting fintech solutions is a game-changer, especially in emerging markets where the population is expected to spike. Our retailers play an instrumental role in helping us to provide safe, affordable housing and infrastructure. Innovating with local startups and customers to build bottom-up initiatives, Holcim also provides e-wallets, micro-credit and remittance services in Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

We will scale these initiatives to cater to more financially underserved families and individuals, and unlock prosperity for all.