25: Launch Africa: Pioneering Tech Investment in Africa | Janade Du Plessis

Welcome to another episode of The Eunice Ajim Show! In this edition, Eunice Ajim sits down with Janade, one of the founding members of Launch Africa, a leading early-stage VC fund focused on Africa. Recorded live at GITEX in Dubai, the conversation delves into Launch Africa's journey, its unique approach to seed-stage funding, and its impact on tech startups across the continent. Janade shares insights into Launch Africa's beginnings, highlighting their commitment to filling the gap in seed-stage funding during the challenging times of 2018-2019. With a focus on supporting startups for 12 to 18 months, Launch Africa became the largest seed fund in Africa, investing in an impressive 133 companies across 22 different African countries. The discussion explores the significance of investing in non-traditional markets, such as Sudan, Zimbabwe, and Cameroon, and the potential for growth in Francophone Africa. Janade emphasizes the importance of being the first investor in emerging markets, citing the need for someone to take the brave step. Notably, Launch Africa celebrates its first exit in Cameroon, marking a significant milestone in the fund's success. The conversation also touches on the future plans of Launch Africa, including the possibility of Fund II and the activation of a vibrant secondary market in Africa through securitization and internal M&A. The episode concludes with a discussion on the economic opportunities in Africa, urging investors to recognize the continent's youthful population, vast arable land, and the need for innovative risk mitigation products for startups. Join Eunice Ajim and Janade Du Plessis in this insightful conversation about Launch Africa's impactful journey and the exciting prospects for tech investment in Africa. Don't miss out on the valuable lessons and perspectives shared in this episode! #LaunchAfrica #TechInvestment #AfricanStartups #GitexDubai #EuniceAjimShow #SeedFunding #AfricanTechScene