Catalyst Fund is an inclusive FinTech accelerator focused on supporting early-stage startups that create innovative financial solutions for the underserved populations in emerging markets. Since its inception in 2016, the Fund has worked to accelerate local innovation ecosystems by providing resources and guidance to entrepreneurs developing affordable and accessible financial services tailored to low-income demographics. It is backed by significant philanthropic support from organizations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and JPMorgan Chase & Co., and is managed by BFA Global with fiscal sponsorship from Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors. Through its initiatives, Catalyst Fund aims to enhance industry knowledge and develop customized tools to empower the next billion users in digital financial services.
Octavia Carbon is the first Direct Air Capture (DAC) company in the Global South, focused on filtering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to combat climate change and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The company designs, builds, and deploys patented technology that utilizes Kenya's geothermal energy and geological resources to enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of DAC technology. By capturing CO2 directly from the air, Octavia Carbon enables the conversion of this greenhouse gas into stable underground rock formations or repurposes it as an industrial gas, helping to replace polluting fossil fuels. This innovative approach not only addresses environmental concerns but also supports industrial power users in East Africa, contributing to the fight against energy poverty in the region.
Octavia Carbon
Pre Seed Round in 2023
Octavia Carbon is the first Direct Air Capture (DAC) company in the Global South, focused on filtering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to combat climate change and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The company designs, builds, and deploys patented technology that utilizes Kenya's geothermal energy and geological resources to enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of DAC technology. By capturing CO2 directly from the air, Octavia Carbon enables the conversion of this greenhouse gas into stable underground rock formations or repurposes it as an industrial gas, helping to replace polluting fossil fuels. This innovative approach not only addresses environmental concerns but also supports industrial power users in East Africa, contributing to the fight against energy poverty in the region.
Pesakit
Grant in 2020
PesaKit is a technology company based in Nairobi, Kenya, that specializes in providing a platform for last-mile agent networks in the mobile money and digital finance sectors. Established in 2018, PesaKit utilizes artificial intelligence to develop a virtual assistant that streamlines the management of liquidity and conversion processes for mobile money agents and merchants. The company's software application features an API-driven interface, enabling users to digitize distribution and access channels effectively. PesaKit aims to enhance financial inclusion by supporting mobile money agents with innovative tools that improve their operational efficiency.
Kwara
Grant in 2020
Kwara GmbH is a technology company that specializes in developing a digital banking platform tailored for savings and credit co-operative societies (SACCOs). Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Berlin, Germany, with an additional office in Nairobi, Kenya, Kwara aims to modernize credit unions by providing a comprehensive cloud-based solution. The platform facilitates loan application servicing and approval for members, while also offering integration services, customer support, real-time financial tracking, and compliance assistance. Kwara's offerings include Kwara Pronto, a tool for managing loans. Currently, the company serves over 200 SACCOs across Kenya, South Africa, and the Philippines, enabling these financial institutions to enhance their operations and improve access to formal financial services.
Spot something off? Help us improve by flagging any incorrect or outdated information. Just email us at support@teaserclub.com. Your feedback is most welcome.