In Africa’s rapidly evolving fintech landscape, First Circle Capital stands out, not just for its investment strategy but for how deeply it engages with founders and systems alike. Leadership driving the force A female-led fund driving fintech innovation established by fintech veterans, Selma Ribica and Agnes Aistleitner Kisuule, First Circle Capital is an early-stage VC focused […]
Africa’s Gen Z is proving that innovation knows no age. These hyper-connected, tech-native 16– to 28-year-olds aren’t waiting for the “right time.” From Lagos to Nairobi, Cape Town, and Accra, they’re building solutions that solve real problems, right now. What Makes Them Stand Out They bring more than youthful energy. They’re digital natives, growing up […]
The first half of this year was a period of redefinition in the African Startup Ecosystem. It was a period characterised by diversification, the emergence of new top performers, cross-border investments, a merger and, importantly, a record-breaker. African startups have broken a record set by economic setbacks by securing $1.4 billion in funding in H1 […]
In the crowded streets of Lagos, where flooding chokes drainage systems clogged with discarded plastic, Salubata saw an opportunity, a chance to turn pollution into possibility. Reimagining Waste as Design Co-founded in 2020 by environmental scientist and creative director Fela Buyi Akinse, along with Yewande Akinse, Salubata creates modular shoes from recycled plastic waste sourced […]
The fight against climate change has a new hero, and it’s not from where you’d expect. Meet Octavia Carbon, a groundbreaking Kenyan startup rewriting the rules of carbon removal with cutting-edge Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology.
When people talk about startups, the spotlight usually falls on the “big fish” – the unicorns making waves across tech hubs and newsfeeds. But there’s an overlooked powerhouse many aren’t paying attention to: Africa’s grey economy. A powerhouse because it supports millions of lives and drives economic activity in ways that you’d not normally notice. […]
What happens when a global powerhouse in startup acceleration suddenly decides to pull out of one of Africa’s fastest-growing tech hubs? After just two years in Nigeria, ARM Labs Lagos Techstars has surprised everyone by shutting down its operations. This also means the third program, which started in March 2024, is now officially canceled. The news […]
Let’s chat about agriculture in Africa. It’s not just a part of the economy; it’s essential for millions of people who depend on it for their livelihoods. But here’s the reality: many farmers face tough challenges. From unpredictable weather to limited access to modern tools, it can be a struggle. Thankfully, there’s a wave of […]
Youth entrepreneurship has been more recognised lately. We now see it as a critical solution to youth employment in Africa. However, starting a business as a young person can be a daunting and challenging task. But, like everything else, it’s easier when you’re not doing it alone. Mentorship and networks play a crucial role in […]
Imagine you’re a young entrepreneur in Africa, facing countless challenges from limited resources to a rapidly changing market. Sounds tough, right? But what if I told you that some of the most successful African founders today faced even bigger obstacles? They didn’t just survive; they thrived. Let’s dive into their inspiring stories and learn how […]
