Startup Caps

#StartupCapsOnLocation Last week, we were at Seamless Africa at the Sandton Convention Centre, where African fintech and innovations took center stage. It was inspiring to engage with the trailblazers of fintech, consumer tech, impact investing, and big data analytics—topics we delved into during Season 1 of Startup Caps. Catch up on those conversations here: https://lnkd.in/duWYnB-D We had insightful interactions with startups, corporates, and organisations that form the backbone of Africa’s fintech, finance, and e-commerce ecosystem. The energy and collaboration showcased the continent’s growing potential. Footage credit: Seamless Xtra #StartupCapsAfrica #Fintech #Innovation #AfricaRising #SeamlessAfrica

Is impact investing redefining risk capital in Africa? In this episode of Startup Caps, show host Tania Habimana, and her guests dissected the potential of impact investing to provide the necessary risk capital for Africa's most promising startups. Featuring insights from resident guest Okemdi Chukwu, Engagement Lead at Briter Bridges, and our panel of industry founders and investors: Frank Aswani, CEO, African Venture Philanthropy Alliance (AVPA) Marième Diop, VC Regional Head for Africa, IFC - International Finance Corporation Sidonie Latere, Founder and CEO, Kobo Hub (DRC) Régis Bamba, Co-Founder and CPO, Djamo (Cote d'Ivoire) Key Highlights: Rising Impact Investments: There is a notable shift towards impact investing, focusing on sectors like agtech, climate tech, health, and biotech, driven by the dual goal of financial returns and social/environmental benefits. As Okemdi Chukwu pointed out, "Impact investing has become more of an area for your VCs or different LPs to focus on, particularly when it comes to impact metrics." Economic Growth & Talent: Despite funding challenges, Africa's young entrepreneurs are leveraging technology to drive economic growth. Sidonie Latere of Kobo Hub emphasised, "Young African entrepreneurs are incredibly talented and successful by leveraging new technology and tapping into local and international markets." Fintech & Financial Inclusion: Fintech solutions like mobile money platforms play a crucial role in reducing poverty and improving financial inclusion. Marieme Diop highlighted that "Mobile money platforms have a major impact on local economies, with M-PESA in Kenya lifting 2% of households out of poverty." Evaluating Broader Effects: The importance of assessing the social and environmental impact of investments is critical. Diop explained, "We use detailed impact measurement and reporting tools to track the social and environmental outcomes of our investments post-investment." Learn how impact investing is transforming Africa by driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and creating sustainable social and environmental benefits. Watch the full episode here: https://lnkd.in/dY8W8Ui9 Brought to you by Onafriq. #StartupCapsAfrica #ImpactInvesting #Africa #EconomicGrowth #SocialImpact #EnvironmentalImpact #Innovation #FinancialInclusion

Could Africa’s Next Great Export Be Data, Not Minerals? Join us on Startup Caps for a compelling exploration of the transformative world of big data and analytics that's shaping Africa's future. We've gathered insights from top industry leaders who discuss the pivotal role of strategic data utilisation, innovative digital tools, and groundbreaking approaches in rewriting the narrative for growth and innovation across the continent. Featuring Industry Leaders: Okemdi Chukwu, Engagement Lead, Briter Bridges Keet van Zyl, Partner and Co-Founder, Knife Capital Bassim Haidar, CEO & Founder, Optasia Gys Kappers, Chief Executive Officer, DataProphet Fleur Heyns, Chief Executive Officer, Proof In this episode, we delve into the core of big data, exploring its diverse applications, current market trends, potential risks, and the vast opportunities it presents within the African marketplace. Our panel of experts also discusses the critical impact of AI, the indispensable need for robust infrastructure, and how nurturing talent is crucial for sustained growth. Tune in to discover: Sector-wide Transformations: How big data and analytics are propelling innovation and efficiency in sectors like transportation, energy, and retail, alongside manufacturing and agriculture. Innovative Solutions to Big Challenges: The major obstacles and pioneering solutions in unlocking big data's full potential in Africa, addressing issues like data access, interoperability, and scalability. The Talent Imperative: Why fostering a talented and adaptable workforce is essential for Africa’s technological future, spotlighting successful training programs, educational reforms, and tech hubs. Don’t miss out on this enlightening discussion that sheds light on how big data could become Africa's most valuable export, surpassing traditional minerals in significance and value. Watch the full episode here: https://lnkd.in/d8GBZ3jT Startup Caps is proudly sponsored by Onafriq. #StartupCapsAfrica #BigData #Analytics #Africa #AI #Investment #Sustainability #Innovation #BusinessGrowth

We're honoured to be named one of the top 10 fintech startups in South Africa. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to making borders matter less by enabling interoperable cross-border and domestic digital payments across Africa. We're thrilled to share this stage with other innovative companies shaping the future of finance in Africa and contributing to a more connected and inclusive financial ecosystem. Read more here: https://loom.ly/2Y00Hto

Early-stage investors are the unsung heroes driving Africa’s startup ecosystem, providing crucial capital, mentorship, and industry expertise that propel startups from concept to reality. But why do these investments matter so much? And how are tech hubs, regional integration, and strategic partnerships shaping the future? Our latest newsletter dives deep into these topics, exploring: - The pivotal role of early-stage investors: Their "first check" isn't just about money—it's a catalyst for growth and success. - The importance of tech hubs: How over 600 active tech hubs across Africa are fostering innovation and collaboration. - Insights from industry experts: Hear from top investors on the risks, rewards, and strategies that define early-stage investing. - The impact of regional integration: Discover how the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is opening new avenues for startups. Don't miss out—gain the insights that could shape your next investment or entrepreneurial move. Brought to you by Onafriq.

Is Transport Tech the New Gold Rush in a borderless Africa? Uncover the possibilities as the AfCFTA opens borders, with Tania Habimana in this episode of Startup Caps, exploring the sector projected to hit $7.8 billion by 2030 Joined by esteemed industry leaders: Iyinoluwa Aboyeji , Founding Partner, Future Africa Brian Waswani Odhiambo, Partner, Novastar Ventures Adetayo Bamiduro, Co-Founder and CEO, MAX Miishe Addy, Co-Founder and CEO, Jetstream Africa Okemdi Chukwu, Engagement Lead, Briter The discussion illuminates the impact of innovation, capital infusion, and evolving regulatory environments on this rapidly advancing sector. Key highlights include: The future emphasis on electrification and e-commerce expansion. The crucial role of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat) in facilitating smoother intra-African trade. Learn how advancements in infrastructure, regulatory adaptations, and shifts towards electric vehicles and digital platforms are defining the future of transportation in Africa. Don’t miss this insightful episode for more expert analyses and perspectives! Watch the full episode here: https://lnkd.in/dQbYiUY4 Startup Caps is proudly brought to you by Onafriq. #StartupCapsAfrica #TransportTech #Mobility #Africa #Innovation #Investment #Infrastructure #Policy #FutureOfTransport

Did you know that the African edtech sector exceeded the $500M benchmark in 2020 and is anticipated to reach $1.3B by 2028? The industry experienced an impressive 646% VC surge in 2021, capturing $291M, marking 6% of the continent's total VC funding. Noteworthy players like Nigeria, Egypt, and Kenya lead the charge in EdTech investments. Despite a slowdown in funding during 2022 and 2023, innovation in the sector remains a top priority. Efforts are particularly focused on enhancing access to quality education and developing the capacity for training more and better teachers. In this episode on EdTech, Tania Habimana chats to; Alim L., CEO and Founder of Instill Education AyoOluwa Nihinlola, CEO at The uLesson Group Eric Pignot, Founder and CEO at Enko Education Wim van der Beek, Founder and Managing Partner at Goodwell Investments Some key highlights and takeaways from this discussion are; 1. The Crucial Role of Teachers: Education experts stressed the pivotal role of teachers in shaping effective EdTech solutions, emphasising the need for ongoing training and adaptation to new teaching methods. 2. Infrastructure Challenges & Mindset Shift: Infrastructure hurdles, like internet accessibility, pose barriers in providing quality digital education. 3. Overcoming these challenges requires both offline solutions and community acceptance of digital learning effectiveness. 4. Accelerating EdTech Evolution: As the global EdTech market skyrockets to $549.25B, African EdTech emerges as a powerhouse, reaffirming the sector's potential for growth and innovation. Don’t miss out on this insightful discussion, catch the full episode here: https://lnkd.in/gnS6VxGH Startup Caps is brought to you by Onafriq. #StartupCapsAfrica #EdTech

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