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The Catalyst Fund is a pre-seed venture capital fund and accelerator founded in 2015 and based in Nairobi, Kenya. The fund focuses on investing in technology solutions that address climate adaptation and resilience challenges in Africa. Since its inception, the Catalyst Fund has accelerated 81 companies across 19 markets, emphasizing the importance of sustainability and improving livelihoods in the region.
With a team of dedicated professionals, the Catalyst Fund has established itself as a key player in the African startup ecosystem. The fund is backed by notable limited partners, including JP Morgan and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which enhances its credibility and reach. The Catalyst Fund operates from its office located at Riverside Green Suites in Nairobi, Kenya, and has a strong commitment to supporting local and women founders.
The Catalyst Fund primarily invests in pre-seed startups, providing initial funding of $200,000 and following on at Seed and Series A stages. The fund's investment strategy emphasizes sectors such as fintech for climate resilience, insurance, carbon finance, sustainable agriculture, clean energy, and waste management. The Catalyst Fund seeks to support founders who are developing impactful solutions that align with broader social and environmental goals.
Investment criteria include a strong focus on technology-driven approaches that address climate adaptation and resilience. The fund values mission-driven, local, and women founders, ensuring that their investments contribute positively to the communities they serve. The Catalyst Fund's deal structure typically involves initial funding followed by additional support as companies progress through their growth stages.
The Catalyst Fund has accelerated a diverse portfolio of 81 companies across various sectors, focusing on innovative solutions that address climate resilience. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects the Catalyst Fund's commitment to supporting technology solutions that enhance sustainability and improve livelihoods across Africa.
Maelis Carraro: Managing Partner with extensive experience in venture capital and impact investing.
Maxime Bayen: Operating Partner, specializing in operational support for portfolio companies.
Olúwatóyìn Emmanuel-Olubake (Toyin): Chief Investment Officer with a background in finance and investment management.
Shino Grivel: Fractional CFO, providing financial oversight and strategic guidance.
Amolo Ng’weno: General Partner with expertise in entrepreneurship and venture capital.
Malika Anand: Impact Venture Partner focused on social impact and sustainability.
Yemi Adegbayi: Vice Principal with a strong background in investment analysis.
Javier Linares: Venture Building Lead, facilitating growth strategies for portfolio companies.
Kenneth Ngetha: Venture Building Engagement Lead, supporting startups in their development.
Mohammed Valiullah (Vali) Hashmi: Lead Designer, enhancing product development for portfolio companies.
Charles Nweke: Venture Building Engagement Lead, working closely with founders.
Sydney Thiam: Venture Building Engagement Lead, providing operational support to startups.
To pitch to the Catalyst Fund, founders should submit their interest through the online application form available at this link or via email at hello@thecatalystfund.com. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the startup, the problem being solved, the proposed solution, and the team’s qualifications.
Founders can expect a response within a reasonable timeframe, although specific timelines may vary. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory for submission.
The Catalyst Fund runs a single program, the Catalyst Fund itself, which serves as both a venture capital fund and an accelerator. This program focuses on pre-seed startups developing technology solutions for climate adaptation and resilience in Africa.
Eligibility for the program includes early-stage companies that are addressing climate challenges through innovative technology. Startups interested in applying can do so via the Catalyst Fund's website.
As of March 2023, the Catalyst Fund has continued to accelerate startups, having supported a total of 81 companies across 19 markets since its inception in 2015. The fund remains focused on technology-driven solutions that address climate resilience challenges in Africa.
Recent activities include ongoing investments in innovative startups within their portfolio, particularly those that align with their mission of enhancing sustainability and improving livelihoods. The Catalyst Fund's commitment to supporting local and women founders has been a significant aspect of their investment strategy.
What are the investment criteria for the Catalyst Fund?
The Catalyst Fund invests in pre-seed startups focusing on technology solutions for climate adaptation and resilience. They prioritize sectors such as fintech, clean energy, and waste management.
How can startups apply or pitch to the Catalyst Fund?
Startups can submit their interest through the Catalyst Fund's website at this link or via email at hello@thecatalystfund.com.
What makes the Catalyst Fund different from other investors?
The Catalyst Fund emphasizes impact-driven solutions and supports local and women founders, ensuring that their investments align with broader social and environmental goals.
What is the geographic scope of the Catalyst Fund?
The Catalyst Fund focuses on startups operating in Africa, specifically those addressing climate resilience challenges.
What is the typical check size for investments?
The Catalyst Fund provides initial funding of $200,000 for pre-seed startups, with follow-on investments at Seed and Series A stages.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive post-investment?
Portfolio companies benefit from strategic support in venture building, access to networks, and expertise in climate adaptation and resilience, in addition to capital.
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