With the approval of the National Bank of Rwanda, Opportunity International sold its 50% ownership of Urwego to HOPE International in 2017, making HOPE a 99% shareholder in the bank, with World Relief continuing to own 1%.

Drawing upon its name (Urwego is the Kinyarwanda word that translates as “ladder” in English), Urwego's mission statement is, “To provide a ladder of opportunity to under-served communities in Rwanda as we proclaim and live the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”[5] Urwego purpose for creation is to reach Rwandans who are economically active but under-served by licensed banking institutions, offering financial services, loans and savings programs.

[6] Throughout its history, Urwego Bank has distributed nearly $290 million in loans.

[8] As of July 2019[update], Urwego Bank had 15 branches, seven of which, including the bank's headquarters, are located in the city of Kigali, Rwanda's capital.

[9] In addition, Urwego had 15 ATM locations across the country.