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.
BM Prime Capital is a hybrid venture capital and venture studio firm founded to provide early-stage funding to technology startups in Francophone Africa while also creating and scaling companies in the United States. Established with a vision to bridge the funding gap in underserved markets, the firm operates from its headquarters in New York City and Lomé, Togo. The firm recognizes the significant growth potential in Francophone Africa, which comprises approximately 450 million people, yet receives less than 2% of venture capital funding on the continent.
The firm targets a portfolio of over 100 companies, aiming for a high-cadence investment strategy that is ambitious for an emerging fund. BM Prime Capital's dual mandate allows it to not only invest in startups but also to build and scale companies through its venture studio approach. This unique model positions the firm as a first-mover in the Francophone African tech space, leveraging its New York-based expertise to enhance local entrepreneurial ecosystems.
BM Prime Capital focuses on investing in early-stage technology startups, particularly in the sectors of EdTech, FinTech, InsurTech, and HealthTech. The firm identifies these sectors as having significant growth potential, especially in the Francophone African region, which has historically been underfunded despite its demographic significance. The firm employs a hybrid investment strategy that combines traditional venture capital with a venture studio model, allowing it to actively participate in the creation and scaling of startups.
Investment stages primarily include pre-seed, seed, and seed+ (extension), with a target of making over 100 investments. Although specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, the firm’s strategy suggests a high-volume, small-check model. BM Prime Capital seeks founders who demonstrate strong vision and capability, particularly those addressing critical needs in their communities. The firm’s geographic focus spans North America and Africa, with a particular emphasis on Francophone countries.
BM Prime Capital's portfolio includes several notable companies that reflect its focus on technology and innovation in Francophone Africa. The following companies are part of their investment strategy:
These companies exemplify BM Prime Capital's commitment to supporting startups that address critical needs in their sectors, particularly in education, finance, insurance, and healthcare.
Brice Messavussu: Managing Partner & CEO. Brice holds an MBA from Wharton and a JD from Penn Law. He has a background in corporate law and private equity, having trained at a Wall Street law firm. He also serves as a Master Teacher with a separate educational platform.
Godwin Djramedo: Principal. Godwin brings expertise in venture capital and startup development, contributing to the firm's investment strategy.
Dorgelès Guei: Associate. Dorgelès supports the investment team with research and analysis of potential portfolio companies.
Doris Djaglo: Entrepreneur in Residence. Doris provides mentorship and guidance to portfolio companies, leveraging her entrepreneurial experience.
Jean-Paul Yetor: Entrepreneur in Residence. Jean-Paul works closely with startups, offering insights and support in their growth journeys.
Josué Nlandu: Lead Software Engineer. Josué oversees technical development and innovation within the firm's portfolio.
Jordan Nguepi: Software Engineer. Jordan assists in the technical aspects of portfolio companies, contributing to product development.
To pitch to BM Prime Capital, founders should utilize the preferred channel outlined on their website. The firm encourages submissions through the Prime Pitch Competition, where entrepreneurs can present their business ideas for potential funding. Founders should include a comprehensive deck that outlines their business model, market analysis, and financial projections.
Response times may vary, but interested parties are encouraged to follow up if they do not receive timely feedback. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory, as the firm is open to evaluating pitches from various sources.
BM Prime Capital runs several programs designed to support startups in Francophone Africa. One of the key initiatives is the Propulsor program, which serves as a startup accelerator offering coaching, technical support, fundraising assistance, and marketing consulting to promising startups.
Additionally, the firm offers the Prime VC initiative, providing a free video course on venture capital tailored for entrepreneurs in Francophone Africa. The Prime Pitch Competition is another significant program, allowing entrepreneurs to pitch their businesses for a chance to win funding and support.
As of March 2023, BM Prime Capital continues to focus on building its portfolio of early-stage technology startups in Francophone Africa and the United States. The firm has set an ambitious target of over 100 investments, reflecting its commitment to addressing the funding gap in these regions.
Recent activities include the ongoing development of its venture studio model, which aims to create and scale companies alongside its investment efforts. The firm has not publicly announced specific deal activities or exits, but its focus remains on identifying and supporting promising startups in its target sectors.
What are BM Prime Capital's investment criteria?
BM Prime Capital invests in early-stage technology startups primarily in the sectors of EdTech, FinTech, InsurTech, and HealthTech. The firm focuses on companies located in Francophone Africa and the United States, looking for innovative solutions that address significant market needs.
How can I apply or pitch to BM Prime Capital?
Founders can apply or pitch their ideas through the Prime Pitch Competition by visiting the firm's website at BM Prime Capital Pitch Competition. Interested parties can also reach out via email at primepitchcompetition@bmprimecapital.com for inquiries.
What makes BM Prime Capital different from other venture capital firms?
BM Prime Capital distinguishes itself by combining a venture capital approach with a venture studio model. This allows the firm to not only invest in startups but also actively participate in their development and scaling, particularly in the underfunded Francophone African market.
What is the geographic scope of BM Prime Capital's investments?
The firm primarily targets Francophone African countries for its investments, while also creating and scaling companies in the United States. This dual focus allows BM Prime Capital to leverage opportunities in both regions.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, BM Prime Capital is known to operate with a high-volume, small-check investment model, aiming for a portfolio of over 100 companies.
What kind of post-investment involvement does BM Prime Capital have?
BM Prime Capital engages with its portfolio companies through its venture studio model, providing operational support, mentorship, and resources to help startups scale effectively.
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.