Acumen

Wami Agro is an agri-tech company based in Ghana that collaborates with smallholder farmers to cultivate, aggregate, and market a variety of agricultural products. The company focuses on enhancing the livelihoods of these farmers by offering technology-driven solutions that facilitate access to credit and markets. Wami Agro currently aggregates rice, maize, soya bean, and cassava from over 10,000 smallholder farmers, distributing these products to poultry farmers, fast-moving consumer goods companies, distributors, and food service providers within Ghana. By employing sustainable agricultural practices, such as precision farming, the company aims to improve the well-being of farmers, promote food security, and address climate change challenges.

RDG Collective was established in 2018 with the ambition to ‘Empower the Future’ by developing and distributing innovative solar home systems throughout Zambia, where an estimated 2.4 million households still lack access to electricity. While the cost of solar energy remained prohibitively high for almost all off-grid households, RDG Collective came up with innovative products distributed on a pay-as-you-go basis. By eliminating this financial barrier, RDG has enabled an increasing number of Zambian households to access solar home systems, refrigerators, solar water pumps and smartphones to improve and empower their lives.

SunCulture, located in Nairobi, Kenya, specializes in solar-powered drip irrigation systems designed to enhance agricultural productivity while promoting sustainability. Their flagship product, the AgroSolar Irrigation Kit, integrates solar water pumping technology with high-efficiency drip irrigation, equipping farmers with the necessary tools to increase crop yields and optimize water usage. SunCulture distinguishes itself as a comprehensive resource for Kenyan farmers by offering not only the irrigation systems but also agronomic services, educational training, and access to financing and markets. This holistic approach addresses the needs of smallholder farmers, enabling them to grow food more efficiently while minimizing fertilizer waste through direct application in irrigation systems. By combining innovative technology with essential support services, SunCulture aims to empower rural communities and improve their agricultural outcomes.

Ampersand is a company based in Kigali, Rwanda, that focuses on manufacturing affordable electric vehicles and charging systems specifically for motorcycle taxi drivers in East Africa. By providing a battery swap network and an operating system, Ampersand aims to make sustainable mobility more accessible and affordable in developing markets. The company's initiatives not only enhance the livelihoods of local drivers but also contribute positively to the environment. As of January 2024, Ampersand has attracted 2,000 customers who collectively travel 1.5 million kilometers weekly in Nairobi and Kigali, illustrating the growing demand for electric mobility solutions in the region.

Easy Solar is a prominent energy distribution company focused on providing solar solutions to off-grid communities in West Africa, particularly in Sierra Leone and Liberia. The company offers high-quality solar products, such as solar lanterns and solar home systems, aimed at individuals with limited or no access to traditional electricity. Customers can finance their purchases through affordable payment plans, which include an initial deposit followed by weekly or monthly installments, with payment options available via cash or mobile money. Since its inception, Easy Solar has positively impacted over 400,000 beneficiaries, leveraging a vast network of agents and outlets to ensure accessibility and convenience for its clients.

Gram Vaani, a social tech company based at IIT-Delhi, aims to empower underserved communities by facilitating a bottom-up flow of information. The company operates a network of community radio stations in India and Africa, utilizing an intelligent Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system. This platform enables users to share and receive messages about local issues, cultural updates, and government initiatives. By making information accessible and encouraging dialogue, Gram Vaani has successfully engaged over 2 million users across more than 15 Indian states, as well as in countries like Afghanistan, Pakistan, Namibia, and South Africa. The organization focuses on utilizing simple technologies and social context to design tools that foster communication within communities, ultimately aiding in their development.

Kentaste Products Limited is a Kenyan company that specializes in processing, producing, packaging, and distributing a wide array of coconut-based products. Founded in 2011 and based in Nairobi, the company offers natural and locally sourced items, including coconut milk, cream, virgin oil, and desiccated coconut. Additionally, Kentaste produces snacks and chips made from coconuts, catering to diverse culinary uses such as sauces, drinks, curries, and desserts. Their products are available in supermarkets throughout Kenya, highlighting their commitment to providing quality food and beauty products derived from this versatile fruit.

Winock specializes in providing financial services aimed at supporting micro businesses in Nigeria. The company offers various credit options, including solar credit, equipment credit, and cash loans, which enable small entrepreneurs such as barbers, welders, tailors, and kiosk owners to transition to solar power. By facilitating this shift, Winock helps these businesses reduce operational costs and save funds that can be reinvested to foster growth. In addition to its credit services, Winock leverages its expertise in solar energy investment and data analysis to promote economic development and job creation within the African market.

Easy Solar is a prominent energy distribution company focused on providing solar solutions to off-grid communities in West Africa, particularly in Sierra Leone and Liberia. The company offers high-quality solar products, such as solar lanterns and solar home systems, aimed at individuals with limited or no access to traditional electricity. Customers can finance their purchases through affordable payment plans, which include an initial deposit followed by weekly or monthly installments, with payment options available via cash or mobile money. Since its inception, Easy Solar has positively impacted over 400,000 beneficiaries, leveraging a vast network of agents and outlets to ensure accessibility and convenience for its clients.

Solaris Offgrid addresses the critical issue of energy poverty, particularly in rural Africa, where over a billion people lack access to clean and affordable electricity. The company develops and installs solar energy systems that leverage smart technology and mobile payment solutions. Its pay-as-you-go solar home system provides households and businesses with essential services such as LED lighting, communication, and media access, as well as opportunities for enterprise and financial services. By offering an integrated and affordable energy solution, Solaris Offgrid empowers local entrepreneurs, equipping them with the necessary hardware, software, and technical expertise to establish and sustain micro-energy ventures. Through this model, Solaris Offgrid not only enhances energy access but also fosters economic development in low-income communities.

PowerGen Renewable Energy is a leading provider of energy solutions in East Africa, focused on transforming energy access for residential, community, commercial, government, and industrial customers. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, with additional offices in Arusha, Tanzania; Freetown, Sierra Leone; and Lagos, Nigeria, the company specializes in the development, construction, and operation of solar mini-grids. PowerGen offers a range of services including engineering, procurement, construction, and financing, ensuring affordable and reliable power for communities that are not connected to national electricity networks. As a pioneer in the solar mini-grid sector, PowerGen is committed to driving the clean energy transition across Africa and is a founding member of the Africa Mini-grid Developers Association, collaborating with various sector leaders to enhance energy access in the region.

PEG is an asset financing company that specializes in providing Pay As You Go solar energy products to off-grid customers in West Africa, particularly in Ghana, Cote d'Ivoire, and Senegal. Founded in 2013 by Hugh Whalan and Nate Heller, PEG aims to improve the quality of life for its customers by offering financing for solar home systems. This financing model allows households to transition from expensive and polluting fuel sources, such as kerosene, to sustainable solar energy, which not only enhances their living conditions but also serves as a long-term asset. PEG's solar systems provide access to better lighting, mobile phone charging, and appliances like radios and televisions, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient energy solution for underserved communities. Headquartered in Accra, Ghana, PEG is dedicated to promoting renewable energy and improving the standard of living for its customers through innovative financing solutions.

PEG is an asset financing company that specializes in providing Pay As You Go solar energy products to off-grid customers in West Africa, particularly in Ghana, Cote d'Ivoire, and Senegal. Founded in 2013 by Hugh Whalan and Nate Heller, PEG aims to improve the quality of life for its customers by offering financing for solar home systems. This financing model allows households to transition from expensive and polluting fuel sources, such as kerosene, to sustainable solar energy, which not only enhances their living conditions but also serves as a long-term asset. PEG's solar systems provide access to better lighting, mobile phone charging, and appliances like radios and televisions, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient energy solution for underserved communities. Headquartered in Accra, Ghana, PEG is dedicated to promoting renewable energy and improving the standard of living for its customers through innovative financing solutions.

KopaGas is a technology company that designs, manufactures, and distributes environment-friendly cooking fuel. It develops software and hardware solutions that enable direct-to-customer business models for the next generation of LPG retail operations. The company aims to accelerate access to clean cooking solutions. In 2014, Francisco Rodriguez-Sanchez and Andron Mendes founded the company in Dar Es Salaam, Dar es Salaam.

Easy Solar is a prominent energy distribution company focused on providing solar solutions to off-grid communities in West Africa, particularly in Sierra Leone and Liberia. The company offers high-quality solar products, such as solar lanterns and solar home systems, aimed at individuals with limited or no access to traditional electricity. Customers can finance their purchases through affordable payment plans, which include an initial deposit followed by weekly or monthly installments, with payment options available via cash or mobile money. Since its inception, Easy Solar has positively impacted over 400,000 beneficiaries, leveraging a vast network of agents and outlets to ensure accessibility and convenience for its clients.

PEG is an asset financing company that specializes in providing Pay As You Go solar energy products to off-grid customers in West Africa, particularly in Ghana, Cote d'Ivoire, and Senegal. Founded in 2013 by Hugh Whalan and Nate Heller, PEG aims to improve the quality of life for its customers by offering financing for solar home systems. This financing model allows households to transition from expensive and polluting fuel sources, such as kerosene, to sustainable solar energy, which not only enhances their living conditions but also serves as a long-term asset. PEG's solar systems provide access to better lighting, mobile phone charging, and appliances like radios and televisions, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient energy solution for underserved communities. Headquartered in Accra, Ghana, PEG is dedicated to promoting renewable energy and improving the standard of living for its customers through innovative financing solutions.

Sanergy, established in 2010, operates in Nairobi, Kenya, focusing on providing affordable and accessible sanitation solutions in urban slums. The company constructs and franchises low-cost sanitation centers offering toilets and hot showers, which are financed through local microfinance banks. Sanergy collects and processes human waste daily, converting it into biogas for electricity generation and organic fertilizer for sale to farms. Additionally, it collects organic waste from local businesses, transforming it into insect-based animal feed. By creating a circular economy, Sanergy promotes hygiene, reduces environmental pollution, and empowers local entrepreneurs.

Devergy is a social energy utility that focuses on delivering reliable and affordable electricity services to low-income populations in developing countries, particularly in off-grid rural villages. The company operates village-sized energy micro-grids powered by solar energy, allowing households and businesses to access electricity. By utilizing adaptive capacity and regular monitoring, Devergy ensures that its energy services are sustainable and accessible, ultimately enabling communities to benefit from affordable electricity. Based in Ghana, the company aims to improve the quality of life for its customers by providing essential energy solutions.

Paga is a mobile payment company focused on creating a digital ecosystem for money transactions, primarily in Nigeria, where it is recognized as a leading provider in the sector. The company's application facilitates sending and receiving money through mobile devices, making financial services accessible to a broad audience. In addition to transferring funds, Paga's platform allows users to purchase airtime credits, pay bills, and make retail payments, addressing the growing demand for viable payment options. With an ambitious mission to simplify financial access for one billion people, Paga aims to overcome the challenges associated with traditional banking and enhance the overall financial inclusion in its target markets.

BURN Design Lab is a nonprofit organization focused on creating customized biomass stove solutions for the developing world. The organization collaborates with implementing partners to establish sustainable stove dissemination systems that address cooking needs while tackling issues such as deforestation, women's health, and global warming. BURN's primary activities include the design, local manufacture, and distribution of fuel-efficient cooking products aimed at enhancing the lives of underserved communities. Operating a modern manufacturing facility near Nairobi, BURN produces a stove every minute, making it the largest facility of its kind in Africa. Their range of affordable and durable cookstoves, which include biomass, liquid fuel, and electric options, is designed to reduce harmful emissions and improve indoor air quality, enabling families to cook safely and sustainably while protecting their health and the environment.

SolarNow is a company that provides solar energy solutions and financing in East Africa, particularly through its operations in Uganda and Kenya. Founded in 2011 by Willem Nolens and headquartered in Nijmegen, the Netherlands, SolarNow focuses on delivering solar home systems, electrical appliances, and tailored power solutions for rural and urban households, small businesses, farmers, and institutions. The company aims to meet the growing demand for clean and affordable energy by offering high-quality, reliable solar products, along with flexible credit options that enable customers to access these essential services. Through its comprehensive approach, SolarNow addresses the energy needs of various sectors while promoting sustainable energy use in the region.

Esoko Networks Limited operates a mobile-based market information exchange tailored for individuals, businesses, and agricultural projects in Africa. Founded in 2007 and based in Accra, Ghana, the platform delivers personalized market price alerts, buy and sell offers, and agricultural advice directly to farmers via SMS. By providing essential information such as market prices, weather forecasts, and growing tips, Esoko aims to enhance agricultural yields and profitability. The company also supports businesses in connecting with farmers, offering apps and services that facilitate marketing, monitoring, and sourcing. Esoko's ecosystem includes content, software, and field support, enabling NGOs, mobile operators, and governments to track market trends and improve communication in rural communities. Through its innovative approach, Esoko aims to promote market transparency and efficiency, transforming African agricultural markets into more viable opportunities for both individuals and businesses while reducing operational costs for organizations.

Esoko Networks Limited operates a mobile-based market information exchange tailored for individuals, businesses, and agricultural projects in Africa. Founded in 2007 and based in Accra, Ghana, the platform delivers personalized market price alerts, buy and sell offers, and agricultural advice directly to farmers via SMS. By providing essential information such as market prices, weather forecasts, and growing tips, Esoko aims to enhance agricultural yields and profitability. The company also supports businesses in connecting with farmers, offering apps and services that facilitate marketing, monitoring, and sourcing. Esoko's ecosystem includes content, software, and field support, enabling NGOs, mobile operators, and governments to track market trends and improve communication in rural communities. Through its innovative approach, Esoko aims to promote market transparency and efficiency, transforming African agricultural markets into more viable opportunities for both individuals and businesses while reducing operational costs for organizations.

Sanergy, established in 2010, operates in Nairobi, Kenya, focusing on providing affordable and accessible sanitation solutions in urban slums. The company constructs and franchises low-cost sanitation centers offering toilets and hot showers, which are financed through local microfinance banks. Sanergy collects and processes human waste daily, converting it into biogas for electricity generation and organic fertilizer for sale to farms. Additionally, it collects organic waste from local businesses, transforming it into insect-based animal feed. By creating a circular economy, Sanergy promotes hygiene, reduces environmental pollution, and empowers local entrepreneurs.

Husk Power Systems Pvt. Ltd. is a renewable energy company based in Patna, India, that focuses on generating and distributing electricity to households, community services, small businesses, and factories. Founded in 2007, the company utilizes biomass waste—such as rice husks and other agricultural residues—to produce electricity through its proprietary technology. Husk Power Systems designs and operates mini-power plants and micro-grids, offering electricity as a pay-for-use service primarily to rural areas. This approach not only provides reliable lighting, reducing reliance on kerosene, but also fosters economic development by enabling microenterprises and the use of electricity-operated machinery. By creating a sustainable energy ecosystem at each power plant, Husk Power Systems aims to deliver shared value to its stakeholders and stimulate local economies.

Paga is a mobile payment company focused on creating a digital ecosystem for money transactions, primarily in Nigeria, where it is recognized as a leading provider in the sector. The company's application facilitates sending and receiving money through mobile devices, making financial services accessible to a broad audience. In addition to transferring funds, Paga's platform allows users to purchase airtime credits, pay bills, and make retail payments, addressing the growing demand for viable payment options. With an ambitious mission to simplify financial access for one billion people, Paga aims to overcome the challenges associated with traditional banking and enhance the overall financial inclusion in its target markets.

Juhudi Kilimo Company Limited is a Nairobi-based microfinance institution founded in 2004 that specializes in providing asset financing, technical assistance, and business training services to smallholder farmers and small-to-medium agro-businesses in Kenya. The company offers a diverse range of financing options, including loans for livestock such as dairy cows, goats, poultry, pigs, and other animals, as well as for fish farming. Additionally, it finances agricultural equipment like irrigation systems and energy-related machinery, along with vehicles such as motorcycles and bicycles for transporting farm goods. By focusing on loans that support agricultural activities and providing business management and financial literacy training, Juhudi Kilimo aims to enhance the livelihoods of rural farmers and empower them to create wealth through improved agricultural practices.

Gulu Agricultural Development Company (GADC) is a cotton ginning enterprise that supports over 55,000 smallholder farmers in Northern Uganda by facilitating their access to both national and international agricultural markets. The company focuses on revitalizing the region's cotton industry, which has been severely affected by years of conflict and instability. In addition to providing essential agricultural inputs to enhance crop yields, GADC offers agricultural extension and post-harvest management services. The company purchases cotton and sesame from farmers for cash, ensuring they have immediate financial support. Furthermore, GADC cleans, processes, packages, and exports these products to exclusive buyers, thereby improving production efficiency and market access for smallholder farmers. This initiative not only aids in economic recovery but also helps former refugees rebuild their livelihoods.

Western Seed Company Limited is a seed producer based in Kitale, Kenya, specializing in the development and distribution of high-quality seed varieties. Established in 1986, the company focuses on addressing agricultural challenges faced by smallholder farmers, particularly in enhancing maize productivity. It offers a range of products, including hybrid maize seeds, open-pollinated maize varieties, sorghum, millets, beans, and peas, all designed to resist common agricultural threats such as maize streak virus and drought. In recent years, Western Seed has made significant strides in reaching a large number of farmers, with the goal of impacting over 800,000 households by 2014. The company aims to improve crop yields and farmers' incomes through its innovative seed technologies and comprehensive research and breeding programs.

Husk Power Systems Pvt. Ltd. is a renewable energy company based in Patna, India, that focuses on generating and distributing electricity to households, community services, small businesses, and factories. Founded in 2007, the company utilizes biomass waste—such as rice husks and other agricultural residues—to produce electricity through its proprietary technology. Husk Power Systems designs and operates mini-power plants and micro-grids, offering electricity as a pay-for-use service primarily to rural areas. This approach not only provides reliable lighting, reducing reliance on kerosene, but also fosters economic development by enabling microenterprises and the use of electricity-operated machinery. By creating a sustainable energy ecosystem at each power plant, Husk Power Systems aims to deliver shared value to its stakeholders and stimulate local economies.