VC4Africa is a fast growing network of entrepreneurs and investors building innovative companies on the continent. We are a peer to peer network and seek to connect entrepreneurs (and their powerful ideas) with the connections, information and capital they need to realize their potential. We have members in 159 countries and more than 170 ventures building businesses in 25 African countries. We believe entrepreneurship is a key driver for the continent's continued development.

VC4Africa believes that entrepreneurship should be the main driver in Africa’s economic growth, in particular the small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) that provide much of Africa’s employment, income and hope for a better future. SMEs contribute around two thirds of national income and provide the foundation for a stable middle class in many African countries. They help form strong communities and are a powerful force for poverty reduction. SMEs play a significant role in building economic stability and sustainability for the future.

As Africa enters the new millennium it faces a challenge to provide better economic opportunities for citizens through sustained growth and alleviating the poverty that has long plagued the continent. The NEPAD (New Economic Platform for African Development) and the United Nations Millennium Goals for 2015, to which the EU-countries have all subscribed, have set out ambitious aims in this respect. The World Economic Forum in Davos and the G8 have also made the commitment to stimulate private and public investments in Africa. However, it’s our belief that the most meaningful impact will still come from entrepreneurs building great companies.

VC4Africa aims to connect these individuals with the additional network, knowledge and capital they need to realize their potential.

Problem

An entrepreneur in Cameroon needs help growing and scaling their venture. They have developed a prototype, have some customers and are now looking to take the next step. The entrepreneur requires information, network and capital.

Solution

A peer-to-peer network where people from around the world can come together to find and share information. The idea that anyone anywhere in the world can contribute to entrepreneurship development on the continent.

Example

The entrepreneur comes to VC4Africa to register their idea. They connect with other entrepreneurs in the same country and with entrepreneurs building companies in the same sector. They share ideas. The entrepreneur also connects with investors, mentors, coaches and advisors who can help with specific problems or questions. The entrepreneur develops a track record with the community and establishes the partnerships they need.

Marketplace

Entrepreneurs building promising companies in Africa.