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From Here Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm founded to support promising entrepreneurs in Africa. Established to address the unique challenges faced by businesses in the region, the firm emphasizes localized investment strategies. It deploys capital alongside tailored support capabilities, aiming to foster innovation and drive sustainable growth across various sectors.
The firm operates with a strong commitment to three investment pillars: Infrastructure Plays, Human Wellbeing, and Women in Leadership. By focusing on systemic solutions, From Here Ventures seeks to enhance human wellbeing and promote gender balance in leadership roles. The firm is based in Africa and has a portfolio that reflects its dedication to these principles.
Currently, From Here Ventures manages a portfolio of nine companies, with a focus on sectors such as healthcare, fintech, edtech, consumer, and commerce. The firm employs a localized approach, providing hands-on support to its portfolio companies, which differentiates it within the African venture capital landscape.
From Here Ventures invests in a variety of sectors, including healthcare, fintech, edtech, consumer, and commerce. The firm prioritizes infrastructure plays, human wellbeing, and women in leadership, employing a localized approach to investment. This strategy allows them to address significant industry challenges while supporting mission-driven entrepreneurs.
The firm utilizes diverse financial instruments such as equity, venture debt, and acquisitions to back its portfolio companies. Approximately 50% of their capital allocation is directed towards equity investments, while around 40% is allocated to venture debt, targeting companies with a 12-18 month path to profitability. The remaining 10% is reserved for acquisitions, which supports venture building efforts.
From Here Ventures seeks entrepreneurs who are not only innovative but also committed to systemic solutions that enhance human wellbeing and promote gender balance. Their investment strategy is designed to empower founders who are tackling pressing challenges within their industries.
From Here Ventures has a diverse portfolio of nine companies, each addressing unique challenges within their respective sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects the firm’s commitment to supporting mission-driven entrepreneurs who are addressing systemic challenges in Africa.
Mark Karake — Partner. Mark has extensive experience in venture capital and has been instrumental in leading investments in various sectors across Africa.
Kevin Irungu — Investment Lead. Kevin specializes in identifying promising startups and has a strong background in financial analysis and investment strategy.
Emmanuel Kivuva — Finance. Emmanuel oversees the financial operations of the firm, ensuring effective capital allocation and financial management.
To pitch From Here Ventures, founders should visit their website at From Here Ventures. It is recommended to include a comprehensive deck that outlines the business model, market analysis, and alignment with the firm’s investment focus. The firm prefers warm introductions but will consider direct submissions through their website.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks after submission.
As of April 2023, From Here Ventures continues to expand its portfolio, recently adding companies like LipaLater and ZemoCard, which focus on innovative financial solutions in East Africa. The firm remains active in the venture capital space, supporting mission-driven entrepreneurs.
In 2022, From Here Ventures was recognized in TechInAfrica's list of active African VC funds, highlighting its commitment to fostering innovation in the region.
What are the investment criteria for From Here Ventures?
From Here Ventures focuses on early-stage companies in Africa, particularly in sectors like healthcare, fintech, edtech, consumer, and commerce. They prioritize mission-driven entrepreneurs who are addressing systemic challenges and enhancing human wellbeing.
How can I pitch to From Here Ventures?
Founders can submit their pitches through the official website at From Here Ventures. It is advisable to include a clear business model, market analysis, and how the startup aligns with the firm’s investment pillars.
What makes From Here Ventures different from other VCs?
The firm differentiates itself through its localized support model, providing tailored resources and strategic guidance to help entrepreneurs navigate the unique challenges of the African market.
What is the geographic focus of From Here Ventures?
From Here Ventures primarily invests in Africa, with a particular emphasis on East Africa and Kenya.
What types of financial instruments does From Here Ventures use?
The firm employs a variety of financial instruments, including equity, venture debt, and acquisitions, to support its portfolio companies.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, but the firm focuses on early-stage investments, which typically range from pre-seed to seed-plus stages.
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