Venture Support
What our portfolio companies can expect
We support jobtech platforms to grow and create more decent jobs in Africa.
Our team of experts and specialists provide bespoke venture-building and acceleration support to companies within the jobtech sector. Our selection for companies is stage-agnostic as long as they have the potential to:
- Create more jobs for young Africans
- Improve the quality of jobs on their platforms for existing workers
- Make jobs more inclusive by employing traditionally underserved groups like women and refugees
We work with suitable platforms to design a bespoke package of support that could include:
Technical assistance or advisory support
Research
You can learn more about the current Portfolio here.
Our venture-building support is tailored to the needs of each startup and is broadly divided into 3 sub-programs:
Catalyst Jobtech Accelerator Large-ticket support focused on growing core business of early-stage venture backable startups | Growth Lab Bespoke funding & advisory support focused on growing core business of early-stage and/or smaller platforms | Innovation Lab Bespoke funding & advisory support for solid businesses to experiment with new solutions or improve inclusivity | |
Jobs potential | Capacity to create 10,000 jobs | Capacity to create 200-5000 jobs | Capacity to create 200-5000 jobs |
Stage | Pre-seed or seed | Pre-seed to Series A | Series A+ |
Support Available | ~$150k in advisory and grant | $10-75k in advisory and/or grant | $20-100k in advisory and/or grant |
How to apply?
We have a central application process to make it easier for companies to apply to our program. Our team will screen all applications, and work with you to identify which support is most suitable for your platform. Our Steering Group approves all the companies we select. If you have any questions, please contact us at [email protected]
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries are eligible?
Based on current funding, we are only able to work with platforms operating (or expanding into) Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda. In future, we hope to add additional countries.
What are the eligibility rules?
Platforms of any stage are eligible, though currently all require having a product live with real users (no idea-stage companies). The Catalyst Jobtech Accelerator requires <3 years in existence and <$1m raised.
Who selects the successful platform?
We have an independent selection group which reviews all propose platforms
What is the selection process and timeline like?
We screen all incoming applications on a biweekly basis, and will let you know progress. We may arrange exploratory conversations. Co-creation of engagement plants is a back-for-forth process, and could take weeks or months. All shortlisted platforms are reviewed by an independent selection committee of sector experts.
Can I apply twice?
We have a central funnel and any application will be considered for all initiatives, so there is no benefit in applying twice. Once you’re in contact with a Venture Builder, please do check-in with updates if anything has changed.
Who is funding these initiatives?
These initiatives are funded by the Challenge Fund for Youth Employment (both initiatives across 10 African countries) and other private donors.
Why is an ecosystem-building initiative working with individual platforms? Shouldn’t it be benefiting everyone?
Our acceleration activities seek to advance the entire sector and create jobs. This serves the dual objectives of building successful businesses, as well as creating buzz and excitement around the sector, with more entrepreneur and investor interest.