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Hlayisani Capital is a private equity and venture capital firm founded in 2016 and based in South Africa. The firm was established through a partnership between Angelhub Ventures and Dzana Investments, focusing on the growth of sub-Saharan African businesses and entrepreneurs. Hlayisani Capital aims to transform local economies and communities by investing in high-growth, high-impact small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with global expansion potential.
Currently, Hlayisani Capital operates two primary funds: the Hlayisani Growth Fund, which targets mid-market private equity investments, and the Hlayisani Venture Fund II, which focuses on technology-enabled companies with scalable solutions. The firm emphasizes socio-economic impact alongside financial returns, primarily targeting businesses in South Africa and the broader African continent. Hlayisani Capital has made significant strides in supporting local entrepreneurs and fostering economic development.
Hlayisani Capital invests in high-growth businesses across various sectors, including information and communication technology (ICT), manufacturing, agriculture, education, and health. The firm’s investment strategy emphasizes socio-economic impact alongside financial returns, targeting businesses that demonstrate potential for global expansion. Hlayisani Capital is particularly interested in technology-enabled companies that can scale effectively.
The firm operates two main funds: the Hlayisani Growth Fund, which is now closed for new commitments, and the Hlayisani Venture Fund II, which is actively seeking investments. The check sizes for investments typically range from seed to growth equity stages, allowing Hlayisani Capital to support companies at various points in their development. Their geographic focus is primarily on sub-Saharan Africa, with a commitment to driving positive change in the region.
Hlayisani Capital's portfolio includes notable investments that reflect its commitment to high-growth SMEs. Key companies in their portfolio include:
The Hlayisani Growth Fund has fully deployed its capital and is closed for new commitments, while the Hlayisani Venture Fund II continues to actively seek investments in medium and large high-growth companies.
Dr. Michael Jordaan: Member of the Investment Committee, with extensive experience in banking and investment.
Dr. Reuel Khoza: Chairperson, known for his leadership in various corporate boards and his expertise in governance.
Nkateko Khoza: Member of the Investment Committee, bringing a wealth of knowledge in investment strategies.
Lerato Molefe: Investment Committee Chairperson, with a strong background in venture capital.
Mathew Palin: Partner, experienced in private equity and venture capital.
Rochelle Moodley: Head of Operations, overseeing the firm's operational strategies.
Dr. Eugene Van Rensburg: Director & Partner, with a focus on technology investments.
Brett Commaille: Partner, known for his work in supporting high-growth companies.
Muhammed Malek: Investment Associate, involved in deal sourcing and analysis.
Tamala Amelia Manda: Investment Associate, contributing to investment evaluations and portfolio management.
To pitch Hlayisani Capital, founders should send their pitch deck to admin@hlayisani.com. The deck should include a comprehensive overview of the business, market analysis, financial projections, and the team’s background. Hlayisani Capital typically responds within a few weeks, and warm introductions are preferred but not mandatory.
In February 2026, Hlayisani Capital launched their Venture Fund II, securing R500 million in commitments to support high-growth companies in Africa. This fund is actively seeking investments in technology-enabled businesses.
Recent investments include backing for Spatialedge and Tractor Media Holdings, aligning with their strategy to support impactful startups in the region.
What are Hlayisani Capital's investment criteria?
Hlayisani Capital focuses on high-growth, high-impact SMEs with global expansion potential. They invest across various sectors, including ICT, manufacturing, agriculture, education, and health.
How can I pitch to Hlayisani Capital?
Founders can pitch their startups by emailing their pitch deck to admin@hlayisani.com. It is advisable to include detailed information about the business model, market opportunity, and financial projections.
What makes Hlayisani Capital different from other investors?
The firm emphasizes socio-economic impact alongside financial returns, making it a unique partner for startups aiming to create positive change in their communities.
What is the geographic focus of Hlayisani Capital?
Hlayisani Capital primarily targets investments in sub-Saharan Africa, with a strong emphasis on South Africa.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Hlayisani Capital invests across seed, Series A, and growth equity stages, with check sizes varying based on the fund and the specific opportunity.
What kind of support can portfolio companies expect?
Hlayisani Capital provides operational support, mentorship, and access to a network of resources to help portfolio companies scale effectively.
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