Q: What stage of companies does Launch Africa invest in?

A: We focus on pre-seed, seed, pre-series A, and Series A investments in early-stage companies. We seek companies that will be ready for a $3-5 million+ Series A round within 12-24 months of our investment.

Q: Does Launch Africa invest across Africa?

A: We invest in startups whose core operations and teams are located within the African market. The company should be ready to scale outside its home market within 12 months of our investment.

Q: How does Launch Africa add value beyond capital?

A: Our team has extensive experience building and scaling startups in Africa. We offer hands-on support with fundraising, governance, recruiting, operations, DEI and expansion planning. Our network provides access to corporates, mentors, and key services such as marketing, HR, legal, and accounting.

Q: What sectors does Launch Africa invest in?

A: We are a multi-sector Fund but are particularly interested in tech-enabled sectors such as Fintech, Healthtech, Climate tech, Agritech, Edtech, Transportation, Logistics and Mobility, E-commerce, SaaS, AI, Big Data, and Analytics.

Q: Does Launch Africa have prohibited sectors?

A: We do not invest in gambling, adult entertainment, weapons/defence, extractive industries or other sectors prohibited for our LP base. However, we evaluate deals on a case-by-case basis. 

Q: How can you maximize your chances when pitching to Launch Africa?

A: Highlight your traction, growth metrics, and path to profitability. Articulate your expansion plans beyond your home market. Explain how you've mitigated key risks. Outline future funding needs and how we can support your growth. Demonstrate why your team is exceptional.

Q: What traction does Launch Africa look for in a startup?

A: We prefer companies with at least $25k in net MRR and 10%+ month-over-month growth. We typically don't invest in pre-revenue startups unless the technology or IP is truly transformational. Exceptions can be made depending on market dynamics. All investments are evaluated on merit and on a case-by-case basis.

Q: What investment instruments does Launch Africa use?

A: We make equity investments, typically purchasing common shares or SAFE notes that convert to equity. We lead rounds and provide follow-on investments in our top-performing portfolio companies.

Q: What business models does Launch Africa prefer?

A: We highly prefer B2B or B2B2C business models over B2C. We like to see startups that have successfully completed commercial pilots, and POCs, or are partnered with relevant corporates such as banks, insurers, telcos, retailers, media, and tech companies.

Q: What are your criteria for founders and teams?

A: We prefer investing in management teams with experience building in their market and sector. Graduating from a top startup accelerator, incubator, or innovation centre is a plus.

Q: What is Launch Africa's investment process?

A: We review 200-400 deals per month. Our investment process typically takes 6-8 weeks from the initial call to the final investment.

Q: How can I apply for an investment?

A: Go to our application link and fill out the form. If there is a fit with our criteria, we'll engage within 2 weeks of your application.