Geography
Africa VC Funds
Venture capital funds investing in African startups. Browse Africa-focused VCs across Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and beyond.
30N Ventures is an emerging markets-focused venture capital firm founded in 2023 and headquartered in Santiago, Chile, with offices in Mexico City, Miami, and Paris. Named for the 30th parallel north latitude that delineates its investment universe, the firm closed a $50 million debut fund to back top-tier founders across fast-growing economies below that line. Managing Partners Tomas Denecken and Salvador Said, alongside Partner Paula Giraldo and Partner Daniel Kranzler, bring a combined 75 years of VC and PE experience. The founding team traces its origins to an impact investing firm backed by Bill Gates and Paul Allen. 30N leads rounds from late seed through Series B, deploying checks of $250,000 to $5 million with a sweet spot of $500,000 to $3 million. The firm invests in fintech, food technology, and retail including e-commerce, marketplaces, and logistics. Portfolio companies include FinMaq, Foodology, and Wild Foods. The firm is active across 15 countries spanning Latin America (Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Peru), Africa (Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, Morocco), and Southeast Asia (Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, India). 30N differentiates its model by operating a dedicated M&A function focused on exits and market consolidation — an approach that blends venture capital's entrepreneurial speed with private equity's liquidity discipline. The firm applies data-driven assessments to founder selection, backing entrepreneurs in markets where institutional capital and strategic exit support remain structurally underserved.
4Di Capital is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Cape Town, South Africa, with a mission to support African entrepreneurs building globally scalable tech solutions. Founded in 2009, 4Di focuses on sectors like fintech, agritech, healthtech, and software, leveraging its deep local expertise and a growing international network. Its notable portfolio includes companies like Aerobotics, LifeQ, and Wasoko, all of which have attracted significant follow-on funding from global investors. The firm primarily invests in seed and post-seed stage startups, particularly those with the potential to expand across Africa and beyond. Their investments are concentrated in Southern and Eastern Africa, but their portfolio spans over 15 countries, including ventures with global ambitions. 4Di's approach combines funding with hands-on mentorship, positioning them as a "nurture capital" firm. They favor close relationships with fewer investors, enhancing their ability to provide tailored support to startups. Recently, 4Di closed a $25 million seed fund, aimed at fueling African tech innovation, especially in undercapitalized markets where there is less competition and better investment opportunities.
4DX Ventures is a prominent venture capital firm dedicated to fostering technological innovation across Africa. Established in 2014, the firm focuses on early to growth-stage investments in diverse sectors, including fintech, e-commerce, healthtech, climate tech, edtech, and logistics. Noteworthy portfolio companies include Andela, Flutterwave, and mPharma, showcasing their commitment to supporting transformative startups on the continent. Geographically, 4DX Ventures has a strong presence in key African markets with offices in Accra, Cairo, and Nairobi. This regional focus allows them to provide robust support and leverage local insights effectively. Their investment strategy is characterized by a deep commitment to partnering with visionary entrepreneurs. They emphasize rigorous due diligence and provide strategic, operational, and technical support to help startups scale. The firm typically leads investment rounds, ensuring substantial backing and ongoing guidance. 4DX Ventures was co-founded by Peter Orth, Walter Baddoo, Daniel Marlo, and Raaid Ahmad, who collectively bring a wealth of experience from prestigious institutions like Morgan Stanley and Bridgewater Associates. The team is dedicated to maintaining high standards of integrity, transparency, and excellence in all their endeavors. Recently, 4DX secured a $10.5 million investment from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) for their third pan-African fund, further solidifying their capacity to drive impactful investments across the continent. Startups are encouraged to approach 4DX with innovative solutions that have the potential for significant impact and scalability.
500 Global, formerly known as 500 Startups, is a prominent venture capital firm with a robust global presence and over $2.4 billion in assets under management. Since its inception in 2010, it has invested in more than 2,800 companies across 80+ countries. Some of its most notable investments include Credit Karma, Twilio, Canva, Grab, Bukalapak, The RealReal, Talkdesk, Udemy, and Ipsy. 500 Global's industry focus spans various sectors, with significant investments in consumer services, software-as-a-service (SaaS), fintech, and media (Proptech Zone). Its geographic focus is truly global, with operations in major innovation hubs such as Silicon Valley, New York, London, Singapore, and Mexico City, as well as emerging markets like Lagos, Jakarta, and Riyadh. The fund's strategy involves early-stage investments, providing seed capital along with comprehensive support through its Seed Accelerator Programs. These programs emphasize digital marketing, customer acquisition, lean startup methodologies, and fundraising strategies. 500 Global prefers to invest in companies with high growth potential and innovative business models. Typically, 500 Global invests an average of $150,000 to $250,000 in initial seed rounds and often leads these rounds. The firm is known for its hands-on approach, leveraging its extensive network of mentors, industry experts, and alumni to support portfolio companies. Recently, 500 Global has been active in launching thematic funds targeting specific industries and regions, further expanding its investment reach. The leadership team includes Christine Tsai, the CEO and Founding Partner, who has steered the firm’s growth and global expansion. 500 Global's diverse team of over 100 members spans more than 30 countries, bringing a wealth of experience as entrepreneurs, investors, and operators from leading tech companies.
Aavishkaar Capital is a pioneering Indian impact investing firm founded in 2001, one of the first to apply a venture capital approach to early-growth enterprises in overlooked and challenging geographies across the Global South. Based in Mumbai and part of the broader Aavishkaar Group — which also includes microfinance institution Arohan, NBFC Ashv, advisory platform Intellecap, and the Aavishkaar Foundation — the firm manages $1.45 billion in AUM across eight funds. With over 80 portfolio companies and approximately 50 exits, Aavishkaar has built one of the most extensive impact investment track records in Asia. The firm leads rounds with checks of $5 million to $25 million at Series A through late stage, investing in three core sectors: financial inclusion, food and agriculture, and essential services. Its geographic mandate has expanded from India to include Emerging Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, backing companies that create livelihoods, reduce household vulnerabilities, and improve access to essential products and services while delivering commercial returns. Aavishkaar's 2016 organizational restructuring formalized the Aavishkaar Group structure, enabling each member institution to pursue its development mandate at scale while sharing research, networks, and operational infrastructure. The firm's quarter-century of investing in underserved markets has informed a rigorous due diligence process that evaluates both financial sustainability and measurable social impact — a dual mandate that has attracted institutional capital from development finance institutions and international impact investors.
Acadian Ventures is an early-stage VC firm that focuses on the future of work, helping to build technologies that make work better, more equitable, and productive. Founded in 2019 by Jason Corsello, Acadian Ventures targets pre-seed, seed, and early Series A companies globally, with an emphasis on work tech, particularly in areas like intelligent work applications, work infrastructure, and new regulatory and compliance solutions. The firm typically invests between $500K to $1M, often co-investing alongside other VCs, and prefers to "fast follow" rather than lead rounds. Their hands-on approach and deep industry expertise have garnered them a high reputation among founders, with portfolio companies such as TechWolf and Compa praising their value as advisors. Anchored by notable LPs like ServiceNow Ventures, Acadian recently closed its second fund, a $30M commitment, nearly tripling their assets under management. They pride themselves on being highly engaged investors, often joining company boards as observers to support founders.
Accel is a renowned venture capital firm known for its strategic investments across various stages and sectors. Founded in 1983, Accel has played a pivotal role in the success of numerous high-profile companies. Some of its most notable investments include Facebook, Dropbox, Spotify, and Slack, showcasing its strength in identifying and backing transformative technology companies early on. The firm's investment strategy focuses on seed and Series A funding, ensuring deep engagement with startups from their inception. Accel emphasizes a collaborative approach, providing not just capital but also mentorship and strategic support to help entrepreneurs build market-defining businesses. This hands-on involvement has led Accel to lead investments in over 70% of its portfolio companies. Accel operates globally, with key offices in Silicon Valley, London, and Bangalore, enabling it to tap into entrepreneurial talent worldwide. The firm has recently closed on several funds totaling $3.05 billion, aimed at supporting early-stage startups and growth rounds for more mature companies. In 2023, Accel made significant investments in companies like Blackpoint Cyber, Headway, and Cyera, reflecting its commitment to diverse sectors such as cybersecurity, mental health, and data protection. This broad sector focus, combined with a global investment perspective, positions Accel as a key player in the venture capital landscape, continuously driving innovation and supporting exceptional entrepreneurs around the world.
Accion Venture Lab is an early-stage venture fund focused on empowering inclusive fintech startups that serve underserved and low-income populations globally. Established as part of Accion, a nonprofit dedicated to financial inclusion, Venture Lab provides seed-first capital paired with extensive strategic and operational support to help startups scale and overcome early challenges. Their diverse portfolio features innovative companies like Apollo Agriculture, which offers tech-driven financing to smallholder farmers in Kenya and Zambia, and Bababos, an Indonesian platform that supports small-scale manufacturers with raw materials and financing solutions. With a geographic reach that spans Latin America, the Caribbean, sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, North Africa, Southeast Asia, and even parts of the U.S., Accion Venture Lab's commitment is global. The fund targets industries such as digital lending, insurtech, personal financial management, and MSME-focused solutions, identifying startups with a mission to address systemic barriers to financial access. Their strategy is unique in that they prefer being the first institutional investor, ensuring startups receive not just capital but high-touch mentorship and strategic guidance. In 2019, Accion Venture Lab boosted its support efforts by launching a $23 million fund aimed at deepening their investment into inclusive fintech. Their approach prioritizes not only financial backing but also leveraging their deep-rooted expertise in financial inclusion to provide hands-on operational assistance. The team is led by seasoned Managing Partners Amee Parbhoo and Rahil Rangwala, who bring years of experience in fintech, impact investing, and scaling social enterprises. Founders looking for support from Venture Lab should demonstrate impactful, scalable solutions with clear pathways to financial inclusion.
Acumen is a pioneering impact investment firm dedicated to addressing poverty through a unique approach it calls “patient capital,” designed to fund social enterprises that serve the most marginalized populations. Since its inception in 2001 by Jacqueline Novogratz, Acumen has invested over $150 million across 150+ companies worldwide. Its portfolio spans essential sectors like clean energy, agriculture, healthcare, and education, all aimed at empowering low-income communities with sustainable solutions that can operate at scale. Acumen’s methodology combines financial investment with a strong emphasis on management and leadership support. By focusing on long-term growth rather than immediate returns, Acumen supports businesses in emerging markets like East and West Africa, India, Latin America, and the U.S., ensuring they grow in both impact and profitability. Some of their prominent initiatives, such as off-grid energy projects in sub-Saharan Africa and affordable healthcare solutions in South Asia, reflect their commitment to transforming critical services for underserved populations. In addition to financial investment, Acumen fosters a culture of moral leadership through Acumen Academy, which educates entrepreneurs and social innovators on creating impactful and inclusive businesses. This dual approach of investment and training allows Acumen to build a pipeline of leaders and companies equipped to drive systemic change. With an extensive global network and partners ranging from corporate foundations to local entrepreneurs, Acumen continually expands its reach, working tirelessly to reimagine the role of capital in tackling poverty.
Affiniti VC is a Washington DC-based investment syndicate and consulting firm founded in 2017 by Chinedu Enekwe, a securities attorney, investment fund advisor, and serial entrepreneur. The firm is mission-driven around equal access to private market growth and capital, with diversity embedded as a core principle. Affiniti has deployed over $15 million since inception and manages approximately $27 million across partnerships with three fund managers. Before founding Affiniti, Enekwe co-founded tiphub and managed the Diaspora Demo pre-accelerator, which supported 35 or more startups that collectively raised over $7 million after the program. The firm invests at pre-seed and seed stages with checks of $100,000 to $500,000, focusing on fintech, media, entertainment, transportation, and e-commerce. Affiniti has achieved 5 exits across 9 years of investing. Notable portfolio investments include Lyft and Koji, with co-investors including Greylock Partners, Andreessen Horowitz, Techstars, Capital G, and Vulcan Partners. Affiniti pursues a contrarian strategy, deploying capital through direct investment or fund partnerships. Enekwe has extended the platform through several affiliated vehicles, including a partnership at Passbook Ventures investing in diverse immigrant founders, co-founding Nandi Labs in 2021, and serving as General Partner at Aux21 Capital, a seed-stage fintech fund. This interconnected structure reflects the firm's commitment to building durable pathways for underrepresented founders in the technology ecosystem.
AFI Ventures is a Paris-based impact seed and pre-seed fund launched in 2020 by Ventech in partnership with Aviva France (now Abeille Assurances) and La Ruche incubator. Classified as an Article 9 fund under EU SFDR — the highest ESG designation — the firm backs entrepreneurs operating at the intersection of commercial viability and positive social or environmental impact. General Partner Audrey Soussan, also a General Partner at Ventech, leads the investment effort alongside Partner Charles Fourault, who brings 20 or more years of investment and advisory experience. AFI leads rounds, investing up to €500,000 per deal in one to two companies per month, with over 42 impact companies in its portfolio across Europe and Africa. The fund covers climate technology, circular economy, water management, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, health tech, inclusive finance, and education. Portfolio companies include Koolboks (solar cooling), Bon Vivant (precision fermentation, $15.9 million seed), Faircraft (leather alternatives), Morfo (forest restoration), vorteX-io (flood risk management), and Oolu Solar. AFI Ventures is part of Alliance for Impact, a platform that gives founders access to a community of entrepreneurs and business angels extending well beyond the capital itself. The fund is expanding from France into Western Europe, leveraging Ventech's established networks. Its investment thesis centres on renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and inclusive finance as categories where entrepreneurial solutions can generate measurable societal returns alongside financial ones.
Afore Capital is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm specializing in pre-seed stage investments. Founded in 2016, Afore Capital manages a $300 million fund and typically invests $500,000 to $2 million in early-stage companies that are pre-traction and pre-revenue. The firm focuses on identifying high-potential startups and helping them rapidly scale towards Series A funding rounds. Afore Capital’s diverse portfolio includes companies across sectors such as SaaS, fintech, healthcare, consumer, and enterprise technology. Notable investments include Neo Financial, a digital bank; BetterUp, a platform for professional coaching; and Curefit, a provider of digital and offline fitness services. The firm has a strong track record, with several successful exits and notable co-investments alongside top venture funds like Andreessen Horowitz and Accel.
Ahava Holdings & Ventures is a Toronto-based holding company, private equity, and early-stage venture firm founded in 2019 by Dr. Janét Aizenstros, a serial entrepreneur, author, investor, philanthropist, and member of the UN Global Compact. The firm is described as a nine-figure fund and is dedicated to BIPOC women entrepreneurs building technology companies that generate social impact — positioning it as the first impact fund in Canada led by an Afro-Canadian woman. Ahava is part of the broader Ahava Group Global ecosystem, a women-led modern media parent company operating across nine global locations. The firm operates a co-found and co-invest model, partnering at the seed and pre-seed stages with an established investment syndicate and deploying checks of $100,000 to $500,000. Investment focus spans agriculture, energy, fintech, media, real estate, technology, and wellness across Canada, the United States, and Africa. Portfolio companies include Frallain Group (African luxury brands, partnered with Condé Nast and the UN), Fetchir (SaaS dog marketplace), and ICON (on-demand community for Gen Z creators). Ahava formalises the Janét Aizenstros family legacy through a multi-generational commitment to supporting talented women entrepreneurs from marginalised communities. The firm's approach extends beyond capital to include mentorship, access to media networks, and the commercial relationships within the Ahava Group's global footprint, offering portfolio founders a differentiated support system particularly relevant to businesses building at the intersection of technology and culture.
Alarabi Investments is a Dubai-based investment management firm founded in 2018, incorporated in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA). With offices in Dubai, Riyadh, and Mumbai, the firm specialises in alternative investments and active portfolio management across venture capital, private equity, and hedge fund asset classes. Alarabi focuses on supporting ambitious MENA-based startups delivering change, value, and societal impact across the Gulf region and beyond. The firm targets early and growth stage companies in technology, healthcare, renewable energy, fintech, AI, blockchain, and data science, deploying $100,000 to $500,000 per deal at seed and Series A stages with a total ticket of $1 million to $5 million per investment over a 3-to-5-year horizon. Portfolio companies include Nala Health (clinics and outpatient services) and Coded Minds (educational software). Geographic coverage spans the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar, with selective investment activity in Africa and North America. Alarabi's investment philosophy centres on fostering entrepreneurship as a driver of economic growth and social progress across the MENA region. The firm takes a stage-agnostic approach within its core geographies, backing founders at the point where strategic guidance and capital can most meaningfully influence company direction. Its DIFC regulation and multi-city presence across the Gulf and South Asia provides portfolio companies with credibility and access across some of the world's fastest-growing emerging markets.
Algebra Ventures, Egypt's leading tech-focused venture capital firm, excels in nurturing transformative startups in the MENA region. With a robust portfolio that includes notable names like Halan, Brimore, and Eventtus, Algebra Ventures focuses on high-impact sectors such as fintech, agtech, edtech, logistics, and healthcare. They invest primarily in Egypt but also target broader African markets, leveraging their $100 million second fund to expand their reach. The firm’s investment strategy centers on multi-stage funding, from pre-seed to Series B, with check sizes ranging from $0.5 million to $5 million. They are active lead investors, often the first institutional backers for their portfolio companies. Algebra Ventures is not just about funding; they provide comprehensive support in strategy, operations, and talent development, ensuring startups can scale effectively. Key team members include co-founders Tarek Assaad, who brings Silicon Valley experience, Karim Hussein, and Ziad Mokhtar, along with general partners Laila Hassan and Omar Khashaba. They operate out of Cairo, where they have fostered one of the region's most dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystems. Algebra Ventures is approachable through direct engagement at industry events and via their network of co-investors. Startups seeking investment should demonstrate strong fundamentals and a clear path to solving real-world problems, especially those unique to emerging markets in Africa and the Middle East.
Alpine VC targets founders who are relentless about their products and users, focusing on companies in consumer tech, prosumer software (including tools for creators and developers), and software designed for SMBs. Alpine prioritizes product-led growth (PLG) startups and seeks companies whose products directly resonate with and serve their customers effectively. With typical check sizes from $250,000 to $1 million, they invest at the seed and Series A stages, comfortable leading, co-leading, or joining larger syndicates for flexible collaboration. Alpine operates globally but is rooted in Alameda, California. They emphasize founder passion over traditional metrics like education or professional background, valuing founders who live and breathe their products and who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to the user experience. Alpine’s strategy revolves around building strong, supportive relationships with founders, aiding in everything from go-to-market strategies to operational scaling and customer engagement. The Alpine team is known for its user-centered investment approach, thinking from the perspective of the end user to drive meaningful product development. They encourage founders to pitch directly, favoring those with a clear vision, deep product insights, and a strong connection to their target market. This lean, founder-focused approach allows Alpine to spot high-potential opportunities and help guide early-stage companies through pivotal growth stages, making Alpine an ideal partner for innovative, product-driven startups seeking flexible, strategic support.
Anorak Ventures, founded in 2016 and headquartered in San Francisco, is a seed-stage venture firm that focuses on investing in transformative technology and people. The firm primarily invests in pre-seed and seed-stage companies across various technology sectors, including artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML), Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and consumer tech. Anorak Ventures has invested in over 120 seed-stage technology companies, which now represent an aggregate market capitalization of $24.8 billion. Notable investments in their portfolio include companies such as Vantage Point, WeatherCheck, Orderful, Framework, Prisms VR, Better Health, and Marxent. They are dedicated to helping these companies achieve product-market fit and secure follow-on financing. The firm, led by Managing Partner Greg Castle, aims to support innovative startups by providing not just capital but also strategic guidance to help them scale and succeed in competitive markets.
Antler is a globally renowned early-stage venture capital firm known as the "day zero investor," backing founders from the inception of their startups. With over 850 investments in 20+ countries, Antler has notable portfolio companies like Airalo, a global eSIM provider, and has recently raised a $60 million MENAP fund to further support startups in the Middle East, North Africa, and Pakistan region. Antler focuses on sectors including technology, fintech, and digital innovation, providing personalized coaching, co-founder matching, and follow-on funding. Key team members include Dr. Jonathan Doerr and Romain Assunção, leading regional activities from Riyadh and Duba
Aster Capital, established in 2000 and based in Paris, is a venture capital firm specializing in Climate Tech investments. The firm focuses on sectors such as energy, mobility, and industry, supporting startups at various stages of development. Aster Capital manages around €500 million in assets and operates globally with offices in Paris, San Francisco, and Tel Aviv. Key investments by Aster include companies like ekWateur, an energy supplier accelerating the energy transition; Betterway, a pioneer in employee mobility solutions; and Iceotope, specializing in liquid cooling technologies for data centers. These investments reflect Aster’s commitment to supporting innovative solutions that contribute to carbon neutrality. Aster recently raised €240 million to invest in energy transition and future mobility projects, underscoring their dedication to driving significant environmental impact through technology. The firm’s strategy involves not only financial investment but also providing extensive support through their "Business Hub" approach, which facilitates business opportunities and partnerships for their portfolio companies.
AUC Venture Lab (V-Lab) is Egypt's first university-based startup accelerator, launched in 2013 by the American University in Cairo as part of the Onsi Sawiris School of Business. Operating in Cairo, V-Lab has a dual mission: helping Egyptian startups commercialize innovative technologies into viable ventures that contribute to economic growth and job creation, while providing an entrepreneurship learning platform for the AUC community. Since launch, V-Lab has supported more than 1,000 entrepreneurs and incubated 115 startups. In its first five years alone, those companies generated EGP 88 million in revenues, raised more than EGP 220 million in investment, and created over 500 jobs. The flagship four-month program guides entrepreneurs through designing and scaling tech-enabled businesses while preparing for institutional investment — with checks at the pre-seed stage up to $100,000. In 2016, V-Lab launched a dedicated FinTech Accelerator Program in partnership with Commercial International Bank (CIB). Corporate partners include Arab African International Bank as co-founder, along with SODIC, Shell, and General Electric. V-Lab has received eight international awards recognizing its impact on the Egyptian and MENA entrepreneurship ecosystems. Its position within a leading regional university gives it a distinctive ability to connect early founders with academic networks, research infrastructure, and a growing alumni community. The accelerator has established itself as the anchor institution for tech-enabled startup formation in Egypt and a recognized model for university-affiliated venture programs across North Africa.
Audacity is an early-stage venture capital fund focused on new-age mediatech, primarily investing in startups that bridge the gap between Web2 and Web3 technologies. Founded in 2022 by Kabir Kochhar, Audacity is based in Gurugram, India, and has a strong presence in both Asia and the United States. The fund’s investments focus on the creator economy, Media SaaS, and gaming sectors, aiming to support companies that innovate in content creation, distribution, and monetization. Audacity is known for its founder-first approach, providing not just capital but also hands-on guidance, especially for companies working to scale in the U.S. market. Recent investments include notable companies like Rusk Media and VideoVerse, which are leading players in the digital content and entertainment sectors. With a $60 million fund under management, Audacity places particular emphasis on low-burn, high-revenue businesses, making it an ideal partner for startups looking to thrive in challenging macroeconomic conditions. The fund also actively supports the growth of decentralized media ecosystems within the broader web3 landscape, helping foster long-term value creation through decentralized business models. This strategy positions Audacity as a key player in reshaping the future of media and content industries globally.
Aves Lair is a global venture capital and venture operator founded in 2020, specializing in supporting early-stage startups in the blockchain, AI, Web3, and digital asset sectors. Initially launched as a technology hub in 2018, Aves Lair has evolved into a comprehensive ecosystem that combines venture capital, acceleration, and hands-on operational support to foster growth and innovation. The firm operates with a “founder-first” approach, offering more than just financial backing. Through its in-house accelerator and incubation programs, Aves Lair captures startups at an early stage, providing critical resources such as fundraising assistance, technical development through in-house engineering teams, and strategic market access. The firm also supports its portfolio companies by securing board seats and guiding them through cross-border expansions. Aves Lair invests in projects that focus on the adoption of digital assets and disruptive technologies, with a strong network across Asia, Africa, and North America. Its portfolio includes companies like Computecoin and Digital Prime Technologies, which benefit from tailored support in everything from product development to scaling in global markets.
B Capital Group, founded in 2015 by Eduardo Saverin, Raj Ganguly, and Howard Morgan, is a global multi-stage investment firm. The firm focuses on investing in technology, healthcare, and climate sectors, supporting companies from seed to late-stage growth. With $7+ billion in assets under management, B Capital operates out of eight global locations, including New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Singapore, Beijing, and Hong Kong. B Capital's portfolio includes over 160 companies. Notable investments are in firms like Icertis, an AI-powered contract lifecycle management platform; Synack, a crowdsourced cybersecurity testing platform; and Khatabook, a digital bookkeeping solution for small businesses. These investments reflect B Capital's focus on transformative technologies that have the potential to reshape industries. The firm leverages its strategic partnership with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) to provide portfolio companies with expert advice, operational support, and strategic connections, helping them scale efficiently and effectively across global markets. B Capital's recent initiatives include the closure of their third growth fund series at $2.1 billion, emphasizing their commitment to supporting high-growth startups in the enterprise, fintech, and healthcare tech sectors. B Capital's investment approach is characterized by value-add investing, where they offer comprehensive support throughout the business development lifecycle. This includes advisory services on entering new markets, talent acquisition, and strategic business development, ensuring their portfolio companies achieve sustainable growth and success.
Bamboo Capital Partners is a prominent impact investment firm that focuses on delivering both financial returns and social impact. Established in 2007 and headquartered in Luxembourg, Bamboo has invested in over 30 developing countries, particularly targeting sectors such as financial inclusion, clean energy, healthcare, education, and agribusiness. Their notable investments include Bboxx, which provides solar energy and clean cooking solutions in Africa, and Amartha, a fintech platform in Indonesia that connects female entrepreneurs with lenders. Bamboo's investment funds include the ABC Fund, which supports small agribusinesses in Sub-Saharan Africa, and the BUILD Fund, which finances SMEs in the least developed countries. Bamboo's investment strategy involves rigorous due diligence and a focus on companies that improve quality of life and generate employment in low- to middle-income countries. They aim to support businesses with scalable models and significant social impact potential. For startups seeking funding, Bamboo offers a structured application and review process, ensuring that investments align with their impact goals.
Banana Capital, founded by Turner Novak in 2021, is a venture capital firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The firm focuses on early-stage investments across a variety of sectors with a notable emphasis on internet-first and technology-driven companies. Turner Novak, before starting Banana Capital, managed venture capital investments at Gelt VC and Afore Capital. Banana Capital's investment strategy is characterized by its commitment to backing consumer tech founders and supporting innovative startups through seed funding. The firm's portfolio includes investments in companies like Chainguard, a leader in software supply chain security, Candor, a professional services platform, and Umba, a fintech company focusing on emerging markets. The fund has made 50 investments, highlighting its active role in the venture capital landscape. Some recent investments include Packsmith in the logistics sector and Browse AI, which focuses on AI-driven solutions for cloud computing and data integration. Banana Capital operates with a philosophy of providing more than just capital. They emphasize strategic guidance and leveraging their extensive network to help startups scale and succeed in competitive markets. The firm has quickly gained recognition for its ability to identify and nurture high-potential startups, becoming a prominent player in the venture capital space.
Base10 Partners, founded in 2017 by Adeyemi Ajao and TJ Nahigian, is an early-stage venture capital firm based in San Francisco. The firm focuses on investing in automation technologies that drive efficiency and innovation in traditional sectors of the economy, such as finance, food, healthcare, retail, and logistics. Notable investments by Base10 include companies like Figma, Instacart, and NuBank, which are leading the way in their respective industries. The firm’s strategy is unique in that it emphasizes solving real-world problems for the "99%" rather than exclusively focusing on cutting-edge tech solutions. This approach is rooted in supporting entrepreneurs who have firsthand experience in the industries they are aiming to transform. Base10 Partners also stands out for its commitment to social impact. The firm donates 50% of profits from its largest investments to create scholarships for underfunded colleges, supporting the next generation of technology founders. This initiative underscores their mission to foster diversity and inclusion within the tech industry. The team at Base10 is composed of seasoned founders, investors, and researchers who have collectively built companies worth over $3 billion and realized substantial returns. Their expertise and values—being humble, working hard, and serving both entrepreneurs and investors—drive the firm's success and influence in the venture capital landscape.
Better Tomorrow Ventures (BTV) is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm focused on pre-seed and seed-stage investments in fintech companies globally. Founded by Jake Gibson and Sheel Mohnot, BTV leverages their extensive experience and networks in the fintech industry to support startups with ideation, key hires, customer introductions, and fundraising. They lead rounds with check sizes ranging from $500k to $3 million and manage $225 million in assets under management (AUM). BTV has invested in over 100 fintech companies, collaborating with top-tier VCs. Their portfolio includes notable companies like Albert, Lattice, Mercury, Ironclad, Flexport, and Ramp. They emphasize being hands-on partners, offering not just capital but also strategic guidance and operational support to help founders build successful companies. The team at BTV includes experienced operators who have built and exited startups themselves, bringing deep industry knowledge and a passion for fintech. This commitment to early-stage fintech innovation makes BTV a prominent player in the venture capital landscape.
Big Idea Ventures, founded in 2018, is a leading venture capital firm focusing on the alternative protein and food technology sectors. With over 110 early-stage investments, they have become the most active investor in FoodTech globally. The firm operates through its New Protein Fund and Generation Food Rural Partners fund, supporting innovative companies in plant-based, cell-based, and fermentation-enabled food technologies. Notable investments include companies like Naturannova, which creates sustainable peptide-based flavors using AI, and SoundEats, a cultivated seafood pioneer. Other standout portfolio companies are New Wave Biotech, which develops bioprocess optimization software, and Loki Foods, which produces plant-based seafood using renewable energy in Iceland. Big Idea Ventures runs bi-annual accelerator programs in New York, Paris, and Singapore, providing selected companies with a $200,000 investment and access to an extensive network of partners and investors. This hands-on support helps startups navigate product development, scaling, and market entry. Led by founder Andrew D. Ive, Big Idea Ventures collaborates with strategic partners like Temasek Holdings, Tyson Ventures, and Givaudan, aiming to drive significant advancements in food security and sustainability.
Black Star Fund is a venture capital firm founded to invest in and support high-growth, Black-led startups. Established with a mission to address the historic undercapitalization of Black founders, the firm believes these companies represent a unique asset class with the potential for outsized returns. Led by managing partner Kwame Anku, the fund primarily invests in the U.S. and focuses on companies in technology, consumer goods, media, and entertainment. Black Star Fund goes beyond providing capital. Their high-touch portfolio management approach offers extensive business development support and access to a wide network of decision-makers, helping founders scale quickly. The fund also leverages deep expertise in marketing and media to boost brand equity for its portfolio companies. With $12 million under management from its first fund, the firm has built a portfolio that includes 19 companies, 62% of which are led by Black women. Black Star Fund is actively raising capital for its second fund to continue investing in new opportunities.
Blue Haven Initiative is a pioneering family office focused on combining competitive financial returns with deep social and environmental impact. Co-founded by Liesel Pritzker Simmons and Ian Simmons in 2012, it manages a diverse portfolio across asset classes including public equities, private equity, fixed income, and direct investments. The initiative targets sectors such as clean energy, financial inclusion, and healthcare, with notable investments in companies like CrossBoundary, PEG Africa, and M-Kopa. Geographically, Blue Haven has a significant focus on Sub-Saharan Africa, where it supports early-stage businesses that create economic opportunities and improve living standards in underserved communities. Their strategy includes not only market-rate investments but also philanthropic efforts, policy advocacy, and coalition-building to drive systemic change. As an active early-stage investor, Blue Haven often leads rounds, leveraging its flexibility as a family office to deploy catalytic capital where needed. Ian Simmons, a champion of long-term, impactful investing, leads the team from their headquarters in Cambridge, Massachusetts, working closely with external partners to maximize both financial and social returns.
Bossanova Investimentos, often referred to as Bossanova Invest, is a prominent venture capital firm based in Brazil, specializing in pre-seed stage investments. Founded in 2011 by Pierre Schurmann and later joined by João Kepler, Bossanova has established itself as the most active micro-VC in Latin America. The firm focuses on B2B and B2B2C technology companies that are innovative, digital, and scalable. Bossanova has invested in over 1,200 startups across more than 1,000 companies, making it a significant player in the early-stage investment scene. Their portfolio includes notable exits such as Glovo, Upsie, and Shift. They employ a rigorous selection process and offer extensive support to their portfolio companies to ensure rapid growth and success. The firm's investment strategy revolves around startups that are over 1.5 years old, have found a problem-solution fit, and are already operational and generating revenue. They avoid investments in sectors that exclusively target government, e-commerce, games, or hardware that competes with existing portfolio companies. Bossanova's network includes over 10,000 co-investors, founders, and partner companies, providing a robust ecosystem for startups to thrive. They also offer educational resources through platforms like Clubb.vc, which provides courses and materials on investment, innovation, and business development. In addition to traditional equity investments, Bossanova has introduced an innovative investment model via Cédula de Crédito Bancário (CCB), which allows investors to gain exposure to the startup ecosystem with capital protection and fixed returns. This approach aims to democratize access to venture capital investments, making it accessible to a broader range of investors.
Brooklyn Ventures is a venture builder and venture capital firm founded in 2011 and headquartered in Delft, Netherlands. The firm invests in and operationally supports companies across data intelligence, oil and gas, telecom and media, predictive analytics, and high-tech machinery. Operating as a venture builder, Brooklyn Ventures takes a hands-in role across funding, finance, legal, business development, marketing, data analysis, and IT architecture — functioning as an embedded operational partner rather than a passive capital provider. The portfolio of 11 investments includes Pandora Intelligence (AI and deep learning data intelligence, led by Partner Ard Jol), IRM Systems (pipeline inspection and maintenance services, led by Managing Director Rutger Schouten), RingCredible (which received a €550,000 Series A, run by Partner Hans Osnabrugge), and Mobile Interaction Company. Portfolio companies operate globally, with offices across Johannesburg, Dubai, Lagos, London, Houston, New Delhi, and Kuala Lumpur, reflecting Brooklyn's focus on Europe, Africa, and MENA markets. The three partners — Hans Osnabrugge, Ard Jol, and Rutger Schouten — are each actively embedded in specific portfolio companies as executives rather than board advisors alone. This structure reflects a conviction that the firm adds greatest value not by writing checks and attending quarterly reviews, but by sharing the operational burden of building early-stage companies in technically complex, capital-intensive sectors.
BYLD Ventures is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 2022, primarily focused on early-stage investments in fintech and digital technology startups across Africa and the Middle East. The firm is known for backing innovative companies that drive financial inclusion and technological advancement in underserved markets. Their portfolio includes notable fintech startups like Zilla, Anchor, and Shara, with recent investments reflecting their commitment to expanding financial access through technology. Led by founder Youcef Oudjidane, BYLD Ventures often takes an active role in the startups they back, helping shape strategy and leveraging their extensive network in the African tech ecosystem. They focus on seed and pre-seed rounds, with investments like Waza and SiFi signaling their preference for fintech companies offering scalable solutions. BYLD’s strategy revolves around identifying disruptive tech solutions with potential for significant impact, particularly in sectors where technology can solve systemic financial and operational inefficiencies. The firm has been gaining traction quickly, emerging as a key player in the African fintech space.
Canaan is a leading early-stage venture capital firm that focuses on transformative ideas in the technology and healthcare sectors. With a strong history spanning over 35 years, Canaan has invested in notable companies such as Instacart, LendingClub, The RealReal, and Match.com. The firm has managed to achieve impressive exits, including IPOs for companies like TheRealReal, Arvinas, and Day One Biopharmaceuticals. Canaan’s investment strategy covers a wide range of industries including enterprise software, consumer tech, fintech, and frontier tech. They are particularly noted for their deep involvement in healthcare, with significant investments in areas such as oncology, immunology, and neurology. Their portfolio includes companies like Dexcom, Synthekine, and Vivace Therapeutics, among others. The firm manages over $6.8 billion in assets and recently closed its thirteenth fund with $850 million to continue supporting innovative startups through their early and growth stages. This new capital will help expand their investments in robotics, AI/ML, cybersecurity, and genetically defined precision medicines.
Cathay Innovation, founded in 2015, is a global venture capital firm affiliated with Cathay Capital. The firm focuses on multi-stage investments in innovative startups across various sectors, including AI, fintech, digital health, consumer tech, and energy. With a presence in North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, Cathay Innovation leverages its global network to support entrepreneurs in scaling their businesses. Notable investments in Cathay Innovation's portfolio include Ledger, a leading provider of blockchain-based hardware wallets for cryptocurrency, and Glovo, a Spanish on-demand delivery service that was acquired by Delivery Hero. Other significant investments are Owkin, which uses AI for drug discovery and precision medicine, and Kredivo, a fintech company providing consumer loans in Indonesia. The firm has also seen several successful exits, such as the IPO of Wallbox, a smart charging company listed on the New York Stock Exchange, and the acquisition of Getaround, a peer-to-peer car sharing service. Cathay Innovation has a strong track record of identifying and nurturing high-growth companies, with multiple portfolio companies achieving unicorn status. Led by a diverse team of 45 members, including 17 partners, Cathay Innovation emphasizes a collaborative approach, providing strategic support and leveraging its extensive ecosystem to help startups thrive globally. The firm continues to drive innovation and positive impact through its investments in technology-driven companies.
Celesta Capital is a global venture capital firm, founded in 2013, with a focus on deep tech innovations that drive industry transformation. With over $1.1 billion in assets under management, the firm has made more than 100 investments across sectors like semiconductors, AI applications, cloud infrastructure, and biotech. Celesta operates out of Silicon Valley and has a strong global presence, particularly in the U.S. and India. Their investment strategy targets three main areas: enabling mass adoption of emerging technologies, fostering bioconvergence at the intersection of high tech and biotech, and transforming large, low-tech industries such as construction, agriculture, and healthcare through hardware and AI solutions. The firm is particularly known for its active involvement in portfolio companies, providing strategic guidance, industry connections, and executive support. Celesta's portfolio includes cutting-edge companies like Fungible, H2O.ai, Prosimo.io, and Biomason. The firm is also making strides in India, where they are ramping up deep tech investments, particularly in AI, IoT, and blockchain.
Climate Capital is an early-stage venture capital firm focused on investing in climate tech startups. Founded in 2018 by Sundeep Ahuja, Climate Capital aims to address climate change through strategic investments in innovative technologies that reduce emissions and promote climate adaptation. The firm supports over 350 teams working on various solutions, including clean energy production, carbon emission reduction, and sustainable lifestyle transformations. Climate Capital operates multiple funds and syndicates, such as the Seed, Growth, Bio, and Climate Scout Fund. This platform approach allows the firm to build expertise across specific verticals and leverage efficiencies of scale. The firm provides founders access to a wide network of partners, resources, and LPs to accelerate growth. Their portfolio includes companies like Mosaic, Moxion Power, and Ampaire, showcasing their commitment to diverse climate solutions. Climate Capital is highly networked, with over 2,500 climate investors, founders, operators, and enthusiasts in their community. This extensive network helps founders find talent, customers, strategic partners, and additional investors.
Closed Loop Partners is a New York-based investment firm dedicated to advancing the circular economy through venture capital, growth equity, private equity, and catalytic capital investments. The firm focuses on transforming linear supply chains into circular ones by investing in innovations across material science, robotics, agritech, sustainable consumer products, and advanced recycling technologies. Established in 2014, Closed Loop Partners has made significant strides in promoting sustainability and reducing waste. The firm manages several funds, including the Closed Loop Ventures Group, which targets early-stage companies, and the Closed Loop Leadership Fund, a private equity fund focused on acquiring and building businesses that enhance circular supply chains. Key sectors of investment include plastics and packaging, fashion, food and agriculture, and technology. The firm’s portfolio boasts companies like AMP Robotics, Algramo, and Evrnu, which are at the forefront of sustainable innovations. Closed Loop Partners emphasizes the importance of aligning economic growth with environmental impact, having kept millions of tons of materials in circulation and avoided significant greenhouse gas emissions through its investments. Overall, Closed Loop Partners leverages its extensive network and expertise to support the development and scaling of solutions that contribute to a resilient and waste-free economy.
CRE Venture Capital, established in 2015, is a Pan-African venture capital firm headquartered in Mahwah, New Jersey, with a regional office in Lagos, Nigeria. The firm focuses on investing in early to growth-stage technology and technology-enabled startups that have significant potential for impact and scalability across Africa. The firm's investment strategy centers on backing visionary entrepreneurs who are building category-defining companies in sectors such as fintech, e-commerce, education, and clean tech. Notable investments in their portfolio include high-profile companies like Flutterwave, Andela, and Twiga Foods, which have made significant strides in their respective industries. CRE Venture Capital is co-founded by Pardon Makumbe and Pule Taukobong, who lead a team of experienced professionals dedicated to leveraging their extensive networks and resources to support portfolio companies. The firm typically participates in Seed, Series A, and Series B funding rounds, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and mentorship to help startups achieve their growth objectives. For startups seeking to engage with CRE Venture Capital, aligning with their focus on innovative, scalable technology solutions that address critical challenges in Africa is key. The firm values strong leadership, a clear vision, and the potential for significant market impact.
Crew Capital is a community-driven venture capital firm founded in 2020 by Brandon Deer and Daniel Dines, both prominent figures from UiPath. The firm is headquartered in San Francisco, California, and focuses on providing active operational support to portfolio companies, setting it apart from traditional VC models. Crew Capital's first fund, raised in 2021, amounted to $50 million. This fund supports investments in early-stage startups, helping them scale through a network-driven approach. Crew Capital invests across various regions including the U.S., Europe, Israel, and Latin America, targeting transformative businesses that have the potential to redefine their respective industries. Their portfolio includes notable companies such as BetterUp, Chainalysis, Cedar, and Spring Health. The firm's unique approach involves active involvement from founders who have significant experience in scaling successful companies, ensuring portfolio companies receive unparalleled support and guidance.
DCG Expeditions is the early-stage investment arm of Digital Currency Group (DCG), focused on supporting fintech and crypto founders building the next generation of financial services. Founded in 2021, and rebranded from Luno Expeditions, the firm primarily invests in pre-seed and seed-stage startups globally. With its headquarters in London, DCG Expeditions operates on a global scale, making investments across developed and emerging markets. The firm’s investment strategy is to provide early capital, typically between $50,000 and $250,000, while co-investing with other lead investors in various rounds. They focus on both traditional fintech companies, such as challenger banks, and crypto-native startups that are advancing the decentralized finance (DeFi) space. Their portfolio includes companies like Kotani Pay and Caliza, highlighting their commitment to innovative fintech solutions in regions like Africa and beyond. DCG Expeditions prides itself on leveraging the vast network and resources of its parent company, DCG, to support founders in areas like compliance, scaling, and market entry. The team is led by CEO Jocelyn Cheng and is known for backing startups that are creating a more inclusive and open financial system.
DCVC (Data Collective Venture Capital) is a deep tech venture capital firm based in Palo Alto, California, founded in 2010 by Matthew Ocko and Michael Driscoll. The firm focuses on investing in groundbreaking technologies that address significant global challenges across various sectors, including artificial intelligence, space, climate, engineering, and more. DCVC manages multiple funds, including DCVC V, which is a $725 million fund aimed at disrupting substantial sectors of the global economy. The firm emphasizes backing startups that employ computational and engineering approaches to solve high-stakes problems. Notable portfolio companies include Pivot Bio, Planet, Zymergen, Atomwise, Rocket Lab, and Recursion Pharmaceuticals, all of which are leaders in their respective industries. DCVC also has a specialized branch, DCVC Bio, co-founded with Dr. John Hamer and Dr. Kiersten Stead, focusing on AI-enabled life sciences platforms. This branch aims to bring new medicines to market and commercialize biological breakthroughs, with companies like AbCellera, Chroma Medicine, and Totus Medicines leading the charge. The firm’s investment strategy is driven by a belief that venture capital can address urgent global problems profitably and equitably, turning challenges into opportunities while delivering strong returns. DCVC continues to expand its team with experts across various fields to support its growing portfolio and mission.
DFS Lab, founded in 2016 and based in San Francisco, focuses on early-stage investments in technology startups across Africa. Their portfolio includes over 30 companies, with a strong emphasis on digital commerce and financial inclusion. Notable investments include startups like PayDay, CutStruct, and Terraa, which span various sectors such as fintech, logistics, and food processing. The firm invests early and provides comprehensive support to its portfolio companies, aiming to leverage technology to transform everyday commerce in Africa. Their investment strategy is research-driven, focusing on both the digital and physical hybrid nature of African markets. This approach allows them to tailor their support to the unique challenges and opportunities in these markets. DFS Lab is led by Jake Kendall and Stephen Deng, who bring extensive experience in finance, technology, and emerging markets. The team also includes experts like Juliet Maina and Joseph Benson-Aruna, who focus on policy research and entrepreneurial support respectively. The firm actively collaborates with co-investors like Ventures Platform, Seedstars, and Techstars, further strengthening their network and resource pool for portfolio companies.
Digital News Ventures was an early-stage investment fund operated by MDIF (Media Development Investment Fund), a New York-based not-for-profit corporation founded in 1995 by Saša Vučinić and the late Washington Post editor Stuart Auerbach. Active from 2012 to 2015, the fund deployed $3.8 million in early-stage digital news and information businesses, with checks ranging from $30,000 to $300,000 at pre-seed and seed stages. MDIF overall managed $119.1 million in assets across 62 media businesses in 35 countries before winding down in June 2025. With 9 investments recorded, the portfolio includes Mic (US digital news platform with 20 million monthly users), Malaysiakini (leading Malaysian political news site), Katadata (Indonesian business news), Colab.re (Brazilian civic engagement platform), Gram Vaani (Indian voice-based social media), Rock Content (Brazilian content marketing), and Dataphyte (Nigerian data analytics). The fund was subsequently succeeded by MDIF Ventures, which continued the mission with approximately $2 million deployed across nine early-stage companies in seven countries. The fund's founding thesis was that independent journalism requires dedicated capital in markets where free press is under threat. CEO Harlan Mandel (since 2011) and Managing Director of Media Programs Bilal Randeree directed investments toward entrepreneurs building platforms, tools, and services that make digital-age news businesses commercially viable, with a geographic emphasis on Southeast Asia, Latin America, Africa, and India. The fund is now permanently closed.
EchoVC Partners is a venture capital firm established in 2011, headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, with a focus on investing in underrepresented founders and underserved markets. The firm is led by founder Eghosa Omoigui and a diverse team with extensive experience in technology and finance. EchoVC aims to support entrepreneurial inspiration by financing diverse founding teams and bold business models that leverage technology to deliver significant market value. EchoVC is sector-agnostic, with investments spanning various industries such as fintech, health services, commerce, energy, and sustainable mobility. Notable investments include companies like Andela, Flutterwave, and Shuttlers, reflecting their commitment to backing high-impact ventures across Africa, the US, and Europe. In 2024, EchoVC launched the EchoVC Eco Pilot Fund I, a $2.5 million fund aimed at pre-seed startups focusing on climate, energy, agriculture, and mobility solutions. This initiative underscores their mission to foster early-stage enterprise development and innovation, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa.
EduLab Capital Partners is a seed-stage venture capital firm focused exclusively on education and workforce technologies. Based in Boston and Tokyo, EduLab Capital invests in companies that aim to transform the traditional education landscape by leveraging technology to create scalable business models that deliver significant societal impact. The firm’s portfolio includes innovative companies like Plum.io, Mentor Collective, and Schola, which are developing solutions to enhance learning and workforce outcomes globally. EduLab Capital prides itself on being more than just a capital provider; the firm is deeply involved in the growth of its portfolio companies. It offers hands-on support in areas such as fundraising, strategy, and governance, while also leveraging its extensive global network to open new markets and opportunities for its investments. The firm’s approach is rooted in the belief that patience and perseverance are key to overcoming the unique challenges faced by startups in the education sector. Led by a team of experienced investors and operators, including Managing Partners Liam Pisano and Norihisa Wada, EduLab Capital is committed to creating long-term value for both entrepreneurs and society by fostering innovations that improve learning and workforce development across North America and Asia.
Emergence Capital Partners Limited is a full-fledged financial services company specializing in fixed income brokerage and business and financial advisory services. Based in Africa, the firm engages in trading treasury bills, corporate bonds, and government bonds, offering clients opportunities for stable, fixed returns on mid to long-term investments. The firm also provides bespoke, one-on-one financial advisory services, tailored to meet the unique needs of its clients, from retail investors to high-net-worth individuals and institutions. Founded with the mission to drive high-growth potential and sustainable businesses, Emergence Capital partners with early-stage companies and founding teams across Africa. The firm is often among the first to invest, using a variety of strategies and instruments that are best suited to the markets in which they operate. Their advisory services are comprehensive, helping companies navigate financial challenges and achieve their business objectives. The team at Emergence Capital is comprised of experienced professionals with extensive backgrounds across various sectors, leveraging their expertise to deliver superior value and outcomes for their clients.
Energy Access Ventures Fund is an impact venture capital fund vintage 2015, based in Nairobi, Kenya, focused on investing in small and medium-sized enterprises active in electricity generation and distribution across Sub-Saharan Africa. The fund is a French investment vehicle sponsored by Schneider Electric and co-managed by E3 Capital, Schneider Electric, and Aster Capital. Its limited partners include the European Investment Bank, Proparco, and FMO, reflecting a development finance-oriented capital base. The fund concentrates on off-grid rural electrification, solar home systems, micro-grid solutions, data management, and novel financing techniques. It has deployed capital into 15 portfolio companies that collectively raised approximately $500 million in follow-on funding and have positively impacted more than 21 million individuals, 4 million households, and 1,600 businesses. Portfolio companies together generated 16 megawatts of energy and avoided 144 million tonnes of CO2. The fund leads rounds and deploys $1 million to $10 million checks across Seed, Series A, and Series B stages, investing across East, West, Middle, and Southern Africa. In February 2022, Energy Access Ventures rebranded to E3 Capital, expanding its scope to cover a broader range of technologies enabled by low-carbon energy and launching the follow-on E3 Low Carbon Economy Fund I. The fund's track record of mobilizing over $500 million into off-grid African energy businesses and delivering measurable social impact across millions of households positions it as a significant institution in the African clean energy investment ecosystem.
Eni is a leading global energy company headquartered in Rome, Italy, with operations in over 60 countries. As one of the world's "supermajors," Eni is involved in the entire energy value chain, from the exploration and production of oil and natural gas to refining, marketing, and the generation of electricity. The company is heavily investing in the energy transition, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Eni's strategic focus includes expanding its renewable energy portfolio, developing sustainable mobility solutions, and implementing circular economy practices. For example, through its subsidiary Plenitude, Eni is rapidly growing its renewable energy capacity, with a goal of exceeding 7 GW by 2026. The company is also enhancing its presence in the biorefining sector, integrating green technologies into its operations to reduce its environmental footprint. Financially, Eni remains robust, with plans to invest around €37 billion between 2023 and 2026, including significant allocations toward low-carbon and zero-carbon projects. The company is also committed to returning value to its shareholders through dividends and share buybacks, driven by strong cash flow from its diverse business segments. Eni's global operations, particularly in regions like Africa and the Middle East, contribute to its strategic goals of energy diversification and supply security, while also supporting local economic development.
Ethos VC is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm founded in 2016, investing at the intersection of deep technology and AI from Seed through Series B stages. The firm backs entrepreneurs building generational companies across fintech, blockchain, logistics, software, and broader technology sectors, with a globally inclusive mandate that spans the United States, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Nigeria, Uganda, Australia, the United Kingdom, and Kenya. Check sizes range from $250,000 to $5 million. Ethos has made 17 investments across AI and deep tech, fintech, hardware and robotics, web3, SaaS, and clean technology. The firm's most notable disclosed investment is Figure, a humanoid robotics company that raised $675 million at a $2.6 billion valuation with co-investors including Microsoft, OpenAI, NVIDIA, and Jeff Bezos. Additional focus areas include generative AI, autonomous mobility, aerospace, defense, climate technology, IoT, and sensors. The firm's investment geography reflects a deliberate effort to identify exceptional founders in emerging markets that are underserved by traditional venture capital. Ethos VC operates with a thesis that the most transformative companies of the next decade will be built at the convergence of deep technology and artificial intelligence, and that the founding teams capable of building them will increasingly come from diverse geographies. The firm brings sector expertise in robotics, AI systems, and emerging technology alongside its global network to support founders navigating technically complex and commercially ambitious company-building challenges.