Quona Capital

Quona Capital Management Ltd. is a venture capital firm that focuses on early to growth-stage investments in financial technology companies within emerging markets, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., with additional offices in Bengaluru, Lima, Cape Town, and Mexico City, Quona Capital aims to enhance financial inclusion by backing startups that leverage technology to improve the accessibility, quality, and affordability of financial services for underserved consumers and businesses. The firm primarily invests in disruptive innovations related to digital lending, payments, and wealth management, as well as adjacent sectors such as agriculture, health, education, and commerce. Investments typically range from $1 million to $10 million, focusing on solutions that address the financial needs of those lacking access to traditional banking services.

Monica Brand Engel

Managing Partner

Sheena Jain

Vice President

Varun Malhotra

Partner

David Mathewson

Partner

Meagan Prins

Investment Associate

Ganesh Venkateshwaran Rengaswamy

Managing Partner

Jonathan Whittle

Managing Partner

Past deals in Southern Africa

Sava

Pre Seed Round in 2022
Sava is a multi-management platform that provides an unlimited number of virtual cards as well as automated accounting reconciliation.

Yoco

Series C in 2021
Yoco Technologies Proprietary Limited, known as Yoco, is a South African company based in Cape Town that specializes in providing tools and services for small businesses to facilitate payments and enhance operational efficiency. Established in 2015, Yoco offers a range of products including mobile card machines, payment gateways, point of sale systems, and a business portal, enabling merchants to accept payments in-store, online, and on-the-go. The company aims to simplify the payment process for both buyers and sellers, reducing the complexities associated with managing multiple systems. Yoco currently supports around 100,000 small businesses in South Africa and has been recognized as one of the top 250 most promising fintech companies in recent years.

Lulalend

Series A in 2019
LulaLend is more than a company. It’s a belief in the power of small business, making a difference, building a better solution and striving for excellence. We work hard to empower businesses across South Africa with the funds they need to grow, and we have a great time doing it!

Yoco

Series B in 2018
Yoco Technologies Proprietary Limited, known as Yoco, is a South African company based in Cape Town that specializes in providing tools and services for small businesses to facilitate payments and enhance operational efficiency. Established in 2015, Yoco offers a range of products including mobile card machines, payment gateways, point of sale systems, and a business portal, enabling merchants to accept payments in-store, online, and on-the-go. The company aims to simplify the payment process for both buyers and sellers, reducing the complexities associated with managing multiple systems. Yoco currently supports around 100,000 small businesses in South Africa and has been recognized as one of the top 250 most promising fintech companies in recent years.

AllLife

Venture Round in 2017
AllLife (Pty) Ltd. is a South African insurance company that specializes in providing life and disability coverage for individuals living with HIV and diabetes. Founded in 2004 and based in Sandton, the company aims to address the insurance needs of a demographic that has historically faced significant challenges in obtaining coverage. By offering tailored insurance products, AllLife empowers its clients to lead long and productive lives, countering the stigma and misconceptions associated with their health conditions. The company distributes its offerings through financial services providers, ensuring accessibility and support for its unique clientele.

Yoco

Series A in 2017
Yoco Technologies Proprietary Limited, known as Yoco, is a South African company based in Cape Town that specializes in providing tools and services for small businesses to facilitate payments and enhance operational efficiency. Established in 2015, Yoco offers a range of products including mobile card machines, payment gateways, point of sale systems, and a business portal, enabling merchants to accept payments in-store, online, and on-the-go. The company aims to simplify the payment process for both buyers and sellers, reducing the complexities associated with managing multiple systems. Yoco currently supports around 100,000 small businesses in South Africa and has been recognized as one of the top 250 most promising fintech companies in recent years.

Zoona

Series B in 2016
Zoona is a mobile technology company developing products such as money transfers, electronic voucher payments, and agent payments.

Zoona

Series A in 2012
Zoona is a mobile technology company developing products such as money transfers, electronic voucher payments, and agent payments.