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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, aiming to grow sub-Saharan African businesses and entrepreneurs. Hlayisani Capital focuses on transforming 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 concentrates 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 the investment landscape, securing R500 million in commitments for their Venture Fund II.
Hlayisani Capital invests in high-growth businesses across various sectors, including information and communication technology (ICT), manufacturing, agriculture, education, and health. Their investment strategy is designed to emphasize socio-economic impact alongside financial returns, making them a unique player in the venture capital space. The firm primarily targets seed, Series A, and growth equity stages, focusing on companies that demonstrate potential for significant growth and scalability.
The Hlayisani Growth Fund is currently closed for new commitments, while the Hlayisani Venture Fund II is actively seeking investments in medium and large high-growth companies. Hlayisani Capital looks for founders who are not only driven by financial success but also committed to making a positive impact in their communities. This dual focus on profit and purpose is a cornerstone of their investment philosophy.
Hlayisani Capital's portfolio includes notable investments that reflect their commitment to high-growth sectors. Key companies in their portfolio include:
The firm has fully deployed its capital from the Hlayisani Growth Fund, while the Hlayisani Venture Fund II continues to seek new investment opportunities in high-growth SMEs across sub-Saharan Africa.
Dr. Michael Jordaan: Member of the Investment Committee with a background in banking and investment management.
Dr. Reuel Khoza: Chairperson with extensive experience in corporate governance and leadership.
Nkateko Khoza: Member of the Investment Committee, focusing on strategic investments.
Lerato Molefe: Investment Committee Chairperson with expertise in venture capital.
Mathew Palin: Partner with a strong background in private equity.
Rochelle Moodley: Head of Operations, overseeing operational efficiency.
Dr. Eugene Van Rensburg: Director & Partner with experience in technology investments.
Brett Commaille: Partner with a focus on high-growth sectors.
Muhammed Malek: Investment Associate, supporting deal sourcing and analysis.
Tamala Amelia Manda: Investment Associate, involved in portfolio management.
To pitch to Hlayisani Capital, founders should send their proposals via email to admin@hlayisani.com. The pitch deck should include a comprehensive overview of the business model, market analysis, financial projections, and the socio-economic impact of the venture. Founders can expect a response 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, a data and AI solutions startup, and Tractor Media Holdings, a digital outdoor media company in South Africa. These investments align with Hlayisani Capital's strategy to support impactful businesses 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 apply or pitch to Hlayisani Capital?
Founders can pitch their ideas via email at admin@hlayisani.com. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch deck.
What makes Hlayisani Capital different from other investors?
The firm emphasizes socio-economic impact alongside financial returns, making them a unique partner for startups that aim to create positive change in their communities.
What is the geographic scope of Hlayisani Capital's investments?
Hlayisani Capital primarily targets businesses in South Africa and the broader African continent, focusing on sub-Saharan Africa.
What is the size of Hlayisani Capital's funds?
The Hlayisani Growth Fund is closed for new commitments, while the Hlayisani Venture Fund II has secured R500 million in commitments and is actively seeking investments.
What is Hlayisani Capital's post-investment involvement?
Hlayisani Capital provides operational support and strategic guidance to its portfolio companies, ensuring they have the resources needed to scale effectively.
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