Knife Capital

Knife Capital is an independent growth equity and venture capital firm based in Cape Town and London. Founded in 2010, it backs innovation-driven ventures with proven traction and helps them scale by accelerating international expansion beyond beachhead markets. Leveraging knowledge, networks, and funding, the firm supports entrepreneurial businesses across Africa to reach new markets and achieve product-market fit, guiding them from early traction to growth. Knife Capital has facilitated exits of local technology companies to major global buyers such as General Electric, Visa, Garmin, and Uber.

Richard Dewing

Venture Partner and Investment Committee Member for KNF Fund I and II

Bob Skinstad

Partner

Johnathan Smit

Investment Manager

30 past transactions

Simera Sense

Venture Round in 2024
Simera Sense is a manufacturer specializing in the design, production, and assembly of optical payloads for nanosatellites and small satellites. The company focuses on developing camera control electronics and integrated optical solutions for remote sensing applications. By providing high-resolution imagery capabilities, Simera Sense enables businesses to utilize smaller and more cost-effective satellite systems, enhancing the accessibility and efficiency of satellite-based data collection.

Coachbetter - You are the game

Seed Round in 2023
Coachbetter is a digital marketplace that transforms how soccer coaches learn, communicate, and manage their teams. It offers a comprehensive, integrated software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform tailored for soccer coaches globally. The platform facilitates planning training sessions, managing teams, and preparing for matchdays, while also providing tools for video analysis. Coaches can upload videos of athletes and drills, allowing them to optimize their training methods and improve overall performance. By delivering professional coaching content and digital solutions, Coachbetter aims to elevate the standards of coaching across all levels of the sport.

Kasha

Series B in 2023
Kasha is an East Africa based e-commerce platform that provides women's health, personal care and beauty products through a digital retail and last-mile distribution model. The company offers a wide range of products including contraceptives, menstrual care items such as sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual cups and panty liners, as well as body, hair, facial and oral care, beauty products, maternal and newborn health items, family planning supplies, and treatments for non-communicable diseases and HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment. The platform enables confidential orders and delivers health and personal care products to urban and rural customers, addressing last-mile challenges in Rwanda and Kenya. It operates from bases in Kigali, Rwanda, with an additional office in Nairobi, Kenya, serving women across East Africa with convenient private access to essential health products online and through offline distribution channels.

Octiv

Series A in 2022
Octiv is a prominent platform specializing in gym management software. The company develops comprehensive business management solutions designed to streamline various fitness-related operations. Its technology encompasses features such as membership management, customer relationship management, online booking, scheduling, billing, accounting, workout tracking, and lead management. Additionally, Octiv offers a client-side application that enhances customer engagement, allowing gym owners and trainers to focus on their core mission of helping individuals maintain fitness, stay active, and promote overall health.

DataProphet

Series A in 2022
DataProphet is a Cape Town-based company that develops machine learning and AI solutions to optimize and control manufacturing processes. It offers consulting and product development services across industries, and its platform analyzes data streams from production lines to identify process inefficiencies and uplift yields. Its product suite includes OMNI, which predicts defects and quality errors and prescribes optimal process variables to improve yields, and Mentat, an AI-enabled agent that learns from operations, provides automated responses, and escalates to human experts when needed. DataProphet's autonomous manufacturing platform applies deep learning to reduce defects, scrap, and downtime, enabling clients to achieve higher quality and efficiency on the factory floor.

VoxCroft

Series A in 2021
VoxCroft provides open-source intelligence and risk analytics globally, combining specialized tradecraft with proprietary AI to distill vast open-source data in real time and deliver relevant insights to decision-makers. The company develops population-centric intelligence technology and tools for cultural, linguistic, and national security professionals, extracting data from hard-to-reach places and applying AI, machine learning, and natural language processing to detect events and trends, including translation for low-resource languages. Its analytics enable clients to synthesize data science, machine learning, and security expertise into software and decision-support systems to respond to evolving socio-political and economic dynamics and security threats.

Principal Software(d6 education)

Venture Round in 2021
Principal+ is a fully integrated Administration, Financial and Communication system for Schools. The system is 100% web-based meaning that one only needs an internet connection to operate the system! No server is required at the School and the system is always available online. School management software has never been this easy!

d6 Group

Venture Round in 2021
d6 Group develops comprehensive school management platforms. These platforms enable educational institutions to efficiently manage operations and facilitate communication among schools, parents, and students through a unified portal.

Stone Three Venture Technology

Venture Round in 2021
Stone Three Venture Technology is a company based in Cape Town, South Africa, specializing in the development of advanced technology solutions that address complex engineering challenges. The firm initially focused on bespoke signal processing systems, exemplified by their first project—a particle size analyzer using acoustic technology developed for De Beers Diamonds. Over time, Stone Three has expanded its expertise to encompass machine vision, software-defined radio, data analytics, and machine learning, all supported by a strong foundation in enterprise software development. The company's current offerings include a digital workplace safety platform designed to enhance productivity, health, and safety in various work environments. This platform leverages the company's extensive domain knowledge and data science capabilities to connect employees with essential healthcare services, particularly in remote areas. Stone Three's team comprises highly skilled engineers, developers, and business consultants, who play a crucial role in delivering comprehensive solutions that integrate seamlessly into clients' operations, while also providing a competitive advantage in global markets.

Kandua

Seed Round in 2021
Kandua is an online platform that connects South African homeowners with vetted artisans for home renovations, maintenance, and repairs. It facilitates communication, invoicing, and secure payments through its platform.

Shinarium

Pre Seed Round in 2021
Shinarium is a decentralized EVM-Compartible smart chain designed to allow for scalable and user-friendly mobile and blockchain applications. Shinarium Blockchain Test-net supports thousands of nodes and producing blocks in a few seconds with instant finality. Shinarium is building web3 apps for end-users through multi-token, NFT bridge, Musicverse, GameFi, Metaverse.

Grindstone

Pre Seed Round in 2021
Grindstone is a Telecommunications company that specializes in professional B2B marketing and sales programs.

inQuba

Venture Round in 2020
inQuba is a developer of customer experience management software that specializes in providing real-time solutions for various industries, including financial services, insurance, telecommunications, healthcare, and travel. The company's platform collects and analyzes both structured and unstructured customer engagement data, enabling organizations to monitor and manage customer experiences effectively. By understanding the relationship between operational metrics and customer experience, inQuba helps businesses focus their resources on initiatives that can enhance customer satisfaction. This visibility into customer interactions allows clients to listen to, learn from, and respond to customer needs, ultimately driving better financial performance and improving overall service quality.

DataProphet

Series A in 2020
DataProphet is a Cape Town-based company that develops machine learning and AI solutions to optimize and control manufacturing processes. It offers consulting and product development services across industries, and its platform analyzes data streams from production lines to identify process inefficiencies and uplift yields. Its product suite includes OMNI, which predicts defects and quality errors and prescribes optimal process variables to improve yields, and Mentat, an AI-enabled agent that learns from operations, provides automated responses, and escalates to human experts when needed. DataProphet's autonomous manufacturing platform applies deep learning to reduce defects, scrap, and downtime, enabling clients to achieve higher quality and efficiency on the factory floor.

Snapplify

Venture Round in 2019
Snapplify (Pty) Ltd. is a digital publishing solutions provider based in Durbanville, South Africa, specializing in educational technology. Founded in 2011, the company offers a range of services aimed at enhancing digital learning for institutions and individuals. Its products include a comprehensive digital library solution that features thousands of free eBooks and curriculum-approved content, an e-Learning Content Cloud for schools and universities, and an e-Book Reader compatible with various devices. Snapplify also provides tools for content aggregation, enabling efficient distribution and DRM management of digital materials. The company prioritizes accessibility and collaboration, allowing educational institutions to integrate its solutions without extensive infrastructure investment. With a commitment to social impact, Snapplify supports educators through initiatives like Teacha! and actively collaborates with international publishers to meet the growing demand for digital educational resources. Its innovative approach has facilitated expansion into multiple African markets and the United States, establishing Snapplify as a recognized leader in the edtech sector.

Cradle Technology Services

Series A in 2019
Cradle Technology Services specializes in manufacturing barcoding devices that facilitate the identification, management, and tracking of stock, operations, and transactions. With a wealth of experience within its team, the company offers a range of solutions, including barcoding technologies, label printing, RFID scanning technologies, self-adhesive labels, ribbons, barcode scanners, mobile readers, and fixed readers. These products enable businesses to enhance their warehousing processes and improve operational accuracy.

Pura Soda

Series A in 2019
The PURA Beverage Company (PBC) is a company based in Cape Town, South Africa, which manufactures, distributes, markets and sells “better for you” beverages. This better for you category (Evolved Refreshment) is based on global consumer, market research and trends and represents the evolution of beverages, which is rapidly changing consumer drinking habits across the globe. With low sugar and no artificial flavors or coloring, PURA Soda is a challenger brand pioneering the new category “Evolved Refreshment” – being better for you with none of the compromise of taste or refreshment.

PharmaScout

Series A in 2018
PharmaScout is a single point solution developed by 5nines Technologies, a Cape Town based Internet of Things (“IoT”) business, which overcomes a litany of hurdles faced by healthcare professionals wishing to mitigate legal risk and meet regulatory standards imposed to ensure the safety and quality of stored temperature sensitive pharmaceutical products.

Skillup Tutors

Series A in 2018
SkillUp (Pty) Ltd, based in Cape Town, South Africa, operates an online platform that connects students with tutors for both in-person and online lessons. Founded in 2016, SkillUp began as a marketplace focused on extra lessons for primary, secondary, and university students. In response to the growing demand for online education, the company expanded its services to include virtual tutoring, utilizing a software platform known as "The Lesson Space." This platform allows students and parents to easily find, hire, and schedule lessons with trained and experienced tutors based on specific criteria such as grade level, subject, location, and budget.

DataProphet

Series A in 2018
DataProphet is a Cape Town-based company that develops machine learning and AI solutions to optimize and control manufacturing processes. It offers consulting and product development services across industries, and its platform analyzes data streams from production lines to identify process inefficiencies and uplift yields. Its product suite includes OMNI, which predicts defects and quality errors and prescribes optimal process variables to improve yields, and Mentat, an AI-enabled agent that learns from operations, provides automated responses, and escalates to human experts when needed. DataProphet's autonomous manufacturing platform applies deep learning to reduce defects, scrap, and downtime, enabling clients to achieve higher quality and efficiency on the factory floor.

Pura Soda

Venture Round in 2018
The PURA Beverage Company (PBC) is a company based in Cape Town, South Africa, which manufactures, distributes, markets and sells “better for you” beverages. This better for you category (Evolved Refreshment) is based on global consumer, market research and trends and represents the evolution of beverages, which is rapidly changing consumer drinking habits across the globe. With low sugar and no artificial flavors or coloring, PURA Soda is a challenger brand pioneering the new category “Evolved Refreshment” – being better for you with none of the compromise of taste or refreshment.

Most Mobile and Sensory Technology

Venture Round in 2017
MOST delivers next-generation environmental monitoring solutions. MOST is a service provider that instantly delivers valuable information to the whole Supply chain. The customized software solution and premium hardware reduces costs and increase control for monitoring from farm gate and/or factory to distribution centers.

Quicket

Series A in 2017
Quicket is a cloud-based ticketing platform designed for both small and large event organizers, enabling them to sell tickets, market, and manage events efficiently. Its user-friendly interface allows users to create event profiles and start selling tickets within minutes, catering particularly to smaller event organizers in South Africa and across Africa who previously lacked viable ticketing solutions. Quicket supports various local payment methods, including mobile money, credit cards, and cash, making it accessible for diverse audiences. By integrating these payment solutions, Quicket enhances the event management experience, providing an affordable and comprehensive ticketing service for a wide range of events.

CSense Systems

Venture Round in 2008
CSense Systems specializes in analytic software and engineering solutions designed to enhance performance in industrial manufacturing processes. The company's technology empowers users to proactively identify and address potential process issues before they disrupt operations. By offering a user-friendly platform that does not necessitate advanced modeling or statistical expertise, CSense Systems serves a diverse range of industries, including mining and metals, food and beverage, power, chemicals, paper and pulp, pharmaceuticals, and general manufacturing. This approach allows organizations to effectively troubleshoot daily production challenges, leading to improved operational efficiency and productivity.

Fundamo (Proprietary)

Venture Round in 2007
Fundamo (Proprietary) Limited specializes in mobile financial solutions for banks, financial organizations, and mobile network operators, both in South Africa and internationally. Founded in 2000 and based in Cape Town, the company offers a range of services, including the Fundamo Enterprise Edition, a mobile financial services platform; the Fundamo Mobile Wallet, which delivers transformative financial services; and Fundamo Mobile Banking, enabling banks to provide mobile access to existing accounts. Additionally, Fundamo provides mobile remittance options, integrated payment and purchasing modules, and facilities for issuing mobile debit cards linked to the Fundamo Mobile Account. As a subsidiary of Sanlam Ltd, Fundamo focuses on enhancing financial accessibility through mobile technology.

Clicks2Customers

Series A in 2007
Clicks2Customers specializes in performance-based search marketing solutions aimed at enhancing the efficiency of clients' paid search campaigns. The company is committed to delivering high-quality service and continuously innovates in search marketing techniques to achieve optimal results. By focusing on these strategies, Clicks2Customers seeks to help clients maximize their advertising effectiveness and achieve better returns on their investments in digital marketing.

Flightscope

Venture Round in 2006
FlightScope (Pty) Ltd. specializes in the development and manufacturing of 3D Doppler ball tracking monitors, golf radars, and launch monitors for various sports, including golf, cricket, tennis, and baseball. Founded in 1989 and based in Orlando, Florida, the company originally focused on measuring projectiles for the defense industry, a sector in which it remains active across more than 24 countries. FlightScope's products are utilized by golf instructors, club fitters, tour players, and original equipment manufacturers, allowing users to accurately track ball speed and distance. In addition to hardware, the company offers software applications and support services, and it sells its products online, catering to a global clientele.

Red Five Labs

Seed Round in 2005
Red Five Labs develops a technology that enables mobile apps to run on all smartphones regardless of their operating systems.
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