By Réna Kakon & Jérémy Goillot (co-founder of Kara Ventures)

Last updated: 6th September 2023

At Kara Ventures, we're not just advocates for African startups; we're passionate believers in the transformative potential that lies within the continent. However, we recognize that understanding Africa's startup ecosystems requires more than just reading reports or articles. It demands firsthand experience on the ground.

The Reality of African Startups

Contrary to some misconceptions, Africa is not devoid of innovation or entrepreneurial spirit. Quite the opposite. The continent is teeming with ambitious startups and potential unicorns that are solving real-world problems in unique ways. To truly grasp the dynamism of African startups, one must visit the continent, engage with its people, and immerse oneself in its diverse entrepreneurial landscapes.

What You'll Find Inside

Each guide offers an in-depth look into a specific African city or country, providing valuable insights into top startups, venture capital opportunities, incubators, and essential local resources. These are not just overviews but comprehensive guides built on extensive, on-the-ground research.

Upcoming Guides

Startup Guide for Kigali

Rwanda is a rising star in the African startup scene, known for its stability and pro-business policies. Discover how Rwanda is becoming an unmissable hub for innovation and investment. Read More

Startup Guide for Abidjan

Ivory Coast, with its economic capital Abidjan, is an emerging powerhouse in the West African startup scene. The country has seen significant growth in sectors like fintech, agritech, and e-commerce. Our guide delves into the key players and opportunities that are putting Ivory Coast on the startup map. Read More

Startup Guide for Nairobi

Known as the Silicon Savannah, Nairobi is a leader in mobile technology and home to a growing number of impact-focused startups. Read More

Startup Guide for Senegal

Dakar, the capital of Senegal, is fast becoming a key tech hub in West Africa. With a focus on fintech, e-commerce, and renewable energy, Senegal offers a unique blend of opportunities for startups. Our guide provides an in-depth look at how innovation is shaping Senegal's future. Read More

Startup Guide for Tunisia

Tunisia's startup ecosystem is burgeoning, thanks in part to progressive government policies and a young, tech-savvy population. From e-health to edtech, discover how Tunisian startups are making a mark on both the local and global stages. Read More

Ever wondered what makes Africa's startup scene tick? We did too, and that's why we didn't just sit back and watch. We rolled up our sleeves, hopped on planes, jeeps, and matatus, and got our boots muddy in the vibrant hustle of Africa's entrepreneurial landscapes.

You see, at Kara Ventures, we're not just filling up databases with startup names or crunching numbers behind a screen. We're out there meeting founders, shaking hands with ministers of digital affairs, and yes, even enjoying the occasional local dish (have you tried Senegalese Thieboudienne or Kenyan Ugali? Highly recommend!).

Why? Because we believe that the pulse of innovation can't be felt from a distance. You've got to be in the thick of it. And that's exactly where you'll find us—right at the intersection of ambition and impact, where startups bloom and investors find hidden gems.

Oh, and if you're wondering just how "in the thick of it" we get—let's just say we've broken the front glass of a car lent to us by one of Côte d'Ivoire's most famous CEOs (sorry, not sorry!) and ventured into the most rural parts of countries to follow entrepreneurs where most VCs fear to tread.

So, whether you're looking to invest in the next African unicorn, searching for a VC that understands the unique challenges of running a startup in Abidjan or Nairobi, or simply curious about what's brewing in Africa's tech pots, Kara Ventures is your backstage pass to the most exciting show on the continent.

We Invest in African Startups That Want to Hire us.