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216 Capital Ventures is a venture capital firm established in 2021 in Tunis, Tunisia, by a team of entrepreneurs and investors. The firm focuses on early-stage technology companies across Africa, particularly supporting diaspora founders. The name '216' signifies Tunisia's country code, reflecting the firm's commitment to its roots and the broader African market. As of now, 216 Capital manages a fund size of $10 million and has made 15 investments to date.
The firm aims to create a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing not only capital but also strategic advice and support. 216 Capital Ventures has a team of three partners, all of whom are part of the Tunisian diaspora in Europe. Notably, Dhekra Khelifi serves as the first female General Partner at a Tunisian VC fund, bringing over 12 years of experience in digital and tech innovation.
216 Capital Ventures is dedicated to fostering innovation and growth in the African startup ecosystem. The firm is based in Tunis but aims to expand its reach across Africa and the MENA region. Their notable milestones include the launch of the 216 Capital Venture Accelerator in partnership with Plug and Play, which supports up to 20 Tunisian startups with initial funding.
The investment strategy of 216 Capital Ventures emphasizes technology and innovation across various sectors, including AI, HRTech, fintech, SaaS, energy, e-commerce, logistics, healthcare, and consumer products. The firm primarily invests at the pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages, with check sizes ranging from $100,000 to $250,000, averaging around €250,000. Their target portfolio consists of approximately 50 startups.
216 Capital Ventures is particularly focused on supporting diaspora founders who are building businesses in Africa. The firm provides not only capital but also strategic advice, fundraising support, and introductions to key partners to facilitate growth for early-stage companies. This approach aims to empower African entrepreneurs and drive impactful change in their communities.
Co-investment patterns include partnerships with other investors such as Launch Africa, Katapult, and Techstars, enhancing their ability to support portfolio companies effectively. The firm’s thesis revolves around technology disrupting sectors like e-banking, logistics, e-commerce, and retail, which are crucial for the continent's economic development.
216 Capital Ventures has invested in a diverse range of companies across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects the firm’s commitment to investing in technology-driven solutions that address various challenges across the African continent.
Dhekra Khelifi - Partner/GP. Dhekra is the first female General Partner at a Tunisian VC fund, bringing over 12 years of experience in digital and tech innovation. She has a strong background in supporting startups and fostering growth in the tech sector.
Hassen Arfaoui - Principal, Investment Manager. Hassen plays a key role in sourcing and managing investments, focusing on early-stage technology companies across Africa.
Nada Bendhaw - Team member. Nada contributes to the firm's operations and investment strategy, supporting the overall mission of 216 Capital Ventures.
To pitch to 216 Capital Ventures, founders should visit their website at 216 Capital's website. The firm prefers pitches that include a detailed business plan, market analysis, and information about the founding team. A clear articulation of the problem being solved and the proposed solution is essential.
Response times can vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can facilitate the review process and increase the likelihood of a positive response.
216 Capital Ventures has launched the 216 Capital Venture Accelerator in partnership with Plug and Play. This six-month program is designed to support up to 20 Tunisian startups, providing each with €50,000 in initial funding. The accelerator aims to foster innovation and growth among early-stage companies in Tunisia.
Eligibility for the program includes being a startup based in Tunisia with a focus on technology and innovation. Interested founders can apply through the 216 Capital website for more information on the application process.
In May 2022, 216 Capital Ventures announced the first close of its Fund I at $9.6 million, targeting a total of approximately €10 million. This fund is sourced from Tunisia's ANAVA fund-of-funds.
In September 2025, the firm launched the 216 Capital Venture Accelerator in partnership with Plug and Play, aimed at supporting up to 20 Tunisian startups with €50,000 each in initial funding.
As of April 2026, 216 Capital Ventures has made 15 investments, with a target portfolio of around 50 startups, reflecting their commitment to supporting early-stage technology companies in Africa.
What are the investment criteria for 216 Capital Ventures?
216 Capital Ventures focuses on early-stage technology companies, particularly those founded by diaspora entrepreneurs building in Africa. They invest in sectors such as AI, fintech, healthcare, and logistics.
How can I apply or pitch to 216 Capital Ventures?
Founders can pitch their ideas by visiting the firm's website at 216 Capital's website. They encourage submissions that clearly outline the business model, market opportunity, and team background.
What makes 216 Capital Ventures different from other VCs?
The firm emphasizes support for diaspora founders and provides not only capital but also strategic advice, fundraising assistance, and introductions to key partners, fostering a collaborative environment for growth.
What is the geographic scope of 216 Capital Ventures?
While based in Tunis, Tunisia, the firm invests across Africa and aims to expand its reach throughout the MENA region.
What is the typical fund size and check size for investments?
216 Capital Ventures has a fund size of $10 million, with check sizes typically ranging from $100,000 to $250,000, averaging around €250,000.
What is the post-investment involvement like?
The firm actively engages with its portfolio companies by providing strategic advice, fundraising support, and facilitating introductions to potential partners, ensuring that entrepreneurs have the resources they need to succeed.
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