Novek is a company focused on developing Internet of Things (IoT) technology aimed at eliminating single-use plastics from fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) supply chains. Its innovative system enables the dispensing of micro-quantities of products, enhancing efficiency and sustainability. By providing distributors with real-time visibility into retailers' inventory, Novek's technology triggers automated restocking processes. This visibility benefits manufacturers and small businesses, allowing them to optimize sales. Additionally, the platform supports mobile money payment processing for stock transactions, streamlining operations across the supply chain.
Craydel
Pre Seed Round in 2022
Craydel is an educational information platform dedicated to enhancing the experience of students and working professionals in Africa as they explore higher education opportunities. The platform offers a comprehensive selection of undergraduate, postgraduate, and vocational programs from reputable universities and colleges across 15 countries. Users can easily compare various academic options, including degrees, diplomas, and online certificate programs, which allow them to assess their interests before committing to a specific career path. By providing verified information about institutions and their tuition fees, Craydel enables individuals to make informed decisions that align with their career goals, personal preferences, academic performance, and financial considerations.
Zanifu is a regulated financial technology company that specializes in inventory financing for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Sub-Saharan Africa. The company develops a microlending platform designed to enhance efficiency in supply chain operations, allowing small retailers and wholesalers to access working capital for inventory procurement. With a mobile-first approach, Zanifu's platform is tailored for environments with low internet penetration, enabling users to secure financing and pay suppliers at a later date. By facilitating access to necessary resources, Zanifu supports the growth and sustainability of MSMEs within the consumer goods value chain.
LipaLater
Seed Round in 2022
LipaLater is a lending marketplace that facilitates postpaid payment options for e-commerce transactions. The platform enables retailers to offer a risk-free, point-of-sale credit solution, allowing consumers to purchase goods and services online and pay for them in manageable monthly installments. This approach not only supports retailers in increasing sales but also provides customers with an affordable way to acquire products, enhancing their shopping experience while making financial planning easier. By focusing on installment payments, LipaLater addresses the needs of both sellers and buyers in the online marketplace.
BanQu, Inc. operates a blockchain-based platform that creates economic opportunities for individuals facing extreme poverty and refugees worldwide. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with additional operations in Austin and Miami, BanQu offers solutions that address critical challenges in refugee crises, aid distribution in conflict zones, and enhancing revenue for social enterprises through diaspora capital involvement. The platform focuses on providing secure, immutable digital identities for the unbanked population, facilitating compliance automation, and enabling businesses and governments to effectively track aid and interactions with these communities. By leveraging blockchain technology, BanQu aims to connect marginalized individuals to the global economy and strengthen supply chain resilience through enhanced traceability and compliance capabilities.
AfricaWorks
Seed Round in 2021
AfricaWorks is a co-working space operator based in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, founded in 2019. The company specializes in creating flexible office environments that cater to a diverse range of clients, including international corporations, regional SMEs, and local start-ups. AfricaWorks provides a variety of workspace options, including private offices, shared spaces, hot desks, and meeting rooms, along with interior design and workplace management services. By focusing on celebrating African successes, AfricaWorks aims to foster a conducive business atmosphere that supports entrepreneurship and collaboration across the continent.
Lapaire
Venture Round in 2021
Lapaire Glasses Kenya Ltd. is a manufacturer and retailer of eyewear products, including prescription glasses and sunglasses, aimed at making eye care accessible and affordable for the lower and middle-income populations in Africa. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, the company utilizes innovative technology to provide free vision tests and a range of eyewear options to the estimated 550 million Africans in need of corrective lenses. Lapaire operates an online shop and offers accommodating services such as 24/7 online chat, mobile clinics for free vision testing, free delivery, and flexible payment plans. In addition to its operations in Kenya, Lapaire serves customers in Uganda, Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, and Mali, with a commitment to improving eye health and vision across the continent.
IXAfrica DataCentre
Seed Round in 2020
IXAfrica DataCentre provides internet facilities and smart IT solutions like cloud computing, industry software development, and colocation.
Guidewheel
Series A in 2018
Guidewheel is a developer of an AI-powered FactoryOps platform designed to enhance productivity and profitability for manufacturers across their operations. The platform is non-intrusive, resembling a smartwatch, and utilizes advanced technology to monitor machines by analyzing their electrical activity to determine operational speed, startup, and shutdown times, as well as identifying potential issues before they escalate. Guidewheel's solution incorporates additional sensors and features that contribute to both profit enhancement and sustainability efforts while maintaining a user-friendly, modular, and scalable interface. Founded at Stanford University, the company has successfully partnered with hundreds of manufacturers, achieving an average runtime improvement of 40%. Recognized by the World Economic Forum as a Tech Pioneer, Guidewheel aims to become the leading real-time intelligence platform for the world's factories, significantly impacting business operations and addressing climate change.
Cosmos Yopougon
Seed Round in 2016
Cosmos Yopougon is the first world-class shopping center to be built in Yopougon, Abidjan's largest municipality.
Africa Logistic Properties
Funding Round in 2015
Africa Logistics Properties Ltd. is an integrated commercial property company focused on the logistics and industrial sector in Africa. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, the company specializes in the acquisition, development, and management of modern logistics and warehousing facilities across the continent. It designs and leases warehouses tailored to the occupier lease market, as well as build-to-suit facilities for clients with specific requirements. Additionally, Africa Logistics Properties operates multi-tenant distribution parks and offers sale and leaseback financing, property management, and other value-added services. The management team possesses extensive experience in industrial investment within emerging markets and adheres to international building standards, ensuring high-quality infrastructure for its clients.
Maris Africa
Private Equity Round in 2014
Maris Africa is an investment holding company based in Grand Baie, Mauritius, focused on fostering sustainable, long-term growth across various sectors in Africa. The company specializes in investing in early-stage and startup small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly in property services, business services, mining, and agriculture and forestry. Maris Africa aims to develop its portfolio companies into scalable and cash-generating businesses, emphasizing active community engagement and proactive management of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks. Through its strategic investments, Maris Africa seeks to contribute positively to the economic landscape while ensuring responsible business practices.