Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
The Acumen Resilient Agriculture Fund (ARAF) is a $58 million impact fund dedicated to improving the climate resilience of smallholder farmers in Africa. Founded to tackle the pressing challenges posed by climate change, ARAF invests in early and early-growth stage agribusinesses that support these farmers. The fund aims to help farmers anticipate, weather, and recover from climate events, ultimately increasing their yields and incomes.
Managed by Acumen Capital Partners, a subsidiary of Acumen, ARAF collaborates with notable partners such as the Green Climate Fund and the Soros Economic Development Fund. The fund's focus on smallholder farmers is critical, as they play a vital role in global food production. ARAF's commitment to addressing climate challenges positions it as a key player in the agritech sector.
ARAF invests in early and early-growth stage agribusinesses that prioritize the needs of smallholder farmers in Africa. The fund's investment strategy emphasizes enhancing climate resilience among these farmers, who are essential to global food production. ARAF's check sizes range from $300,000 to $4 million, allowing for flexibility in supporting various agribusiness initiatives.
The fund's thesis is centered on addressing the challenges posed by climate change, which directly impacts agricultural productivity. ARAF seeks to partner with businesses that provide innovative solutions to help farmers adapt to changing climate conditions, thereby improving their livelihoods and food security.
ARAF's portfolio includes a range of agribusinesses focused on enhancing climate resilience for smallholder farmers. While specific companies are not listed in the provided data, the fund's emphasis on early and early-growth stage investments suggests a commitment to supporting innovative startups in the agtech sector.
Investments are directed towards businesses that align with ARAF's mission of improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Africa. The fund's strategic partnerships with organizations like the Green Climate Fund and the Soros Economic Development Fund further enhance its ability to support impactful agribusinesses.
Tamer El-Raghy - Managing Director. Tamer has extensive experience in impact investing and agribusiness, having led various initiatives aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity in Africa.
Rebecca Mincy - Investment Director. Rebecca specializes in early-stage investments and has a strong background in supporting agritech startups.
Akwugo Onuekwusi - Associate Director. Akwugo brings expertise in financial analysis and investment strategy, focusing on agribusinesses that support smallholder farmers.
Dan Kimani - Associate Director. Dan has a background in agricultural economics and works closely with portfolio companies to enhance their impact.
Esther Mwangi - Investment Manager. Esther focuses on sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities within the agritech sector.
Koumba Dem - Investment Manager. Koumba has experience in impact measurement and works to ensure that investments align with ARAF's mission.
Ida Mwango - Associate. Ida supports the investment team in due diligence and portfolio management.
Alice Mugo - TA and Reporting Manager. Alice oversees reporting and ensures compliance with fund requirements.
To pitch ARAF, founders should email info@arafund.com with a comprehensive business plan. The pitch deck should include details on the business model, market analysis, and how the venture addresses climate resilience for smallholder farmers.
As of October 2023, ARAF continues to focus on building partnerships with organizations that support climate resilience in agriculture. The fund's collaboration with the Green Climate Fund and the Soros Economic Development Fund remains a key aspect of its strategy.
ARAF is actively seeking new investment opportunities in the agritech sector, particularly those that align with its mission to support smallholder farmers in Africa.
What are ARAF's investment criteria?
ARAF focuses on early and early-growth stage agribusinesses that enhance climate resilience for smallholder farmers in Africa. The fund looks for innovative solutions that address the challenges posed by climate change.
How can I apply or pitch to ARAF?
Founders can pitch their agribusinesses by emailing info@arafund.com. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and information on how the venture addresses climate resilience.
What makes ARAF different from other funds?
ARAF specifically targets smallholder farmers in Africa, a demographic critical to global food production. The fund's focus on climate resilience sets it apart from other venture capital firms.
What is ARAF's geographic scope?
ARAF invests exclusively in agribusinesses located in Africa, concentrating on the unique challenges and opportunities within the region.
What is the fund size and check size range?
ARAF has a total fund size of $58 million, with individual investments ranging from $300,000 to $4 million.
What kind of post-investment involvement does ARAF have?
While specific details on post-investment involvement are not provided, ARAF's management by Acumen Capital Partners suggests a commitment to supporting portfolio companies through mentorship and resources.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.