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.
Gather Ventures is an impact-oriented investment fund founded in 2021, headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, with a presence in the United States. The fund is backed by the Clara Lionel Foundation, established by Rihanna, and focuses on supporting ventures that empower women and girls while addressing climate challenges across Africa. The organization aims to create sustainable economic growth through innovative solutions in various sectors.
As of 2025, Gather Ventures has a target portfolio of 25 climate-aligned African startups, with a fund size of approximately $20 million. The firm emphasizes investments in female-led and African-led startups, ensuring that the impact of their investments aligns with their dual mandate of gender and climate. The organization has gained significant media attention due to its unique positioning and high-profile backing, establishing itself as a notable player in the African venture capital landscape.
Gather Ventures invests primarily in sectors such as agriculture, construction, technology, education, and workforce development, with a strong emphasis on climate resilience. The fund targets female-led and African-led ventures that contribute to sustainable economic growth. Their investment strategy is designed to support businesses that empower women and address the unique challenges they face in these sectors.
The organization employs a blended capital model, utilizing grants, equity, loans, and working capital financing to support its portfolio companies. This flexible approach allows Gather Ventures to adapt to the specific needs of each venture, ensuring that they can thrive in their respective markets. The firm looks for founders who demonstrate a commitment to creating climate resilience and driving asset creation for women and girls across Africa.
Gather Ventures has invested in a diverse range of companies that align with its mission of empowering women and addressing climate challenges. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies exemplify Gather Ventures' commitment to investing in ventures that create climate resilience and drive economic empowerment for women and girls across Africa.
Jo Opot - Founding Director. Jo has a background in business development and leadership strategy, previously serving as Head of Business Development at Acumen in San Francisco and later in Nairobi. She brings extensive experience in impact investing and a strong commitment to gender and climate issues.
Tatu Gatere - Founder & CEO of BuildHer. Tatu leads initiatives focused on training female construction artisans in Kenya, promoting sustainable construction practices.
Dr. Linda Davis - Founder & CEO of Giraffe Bioenergy. Linda drives efforts to engage women in bioethanol production, creating economic opportunities while addressing health and environmental challenges.
Kidus Asfaw - Founder & CEO of Kubik. Kidus focuses on converting plastic waste into construction materials, empowering female waste pickers in Ethiopia.
Susan Aletia - Board Chair of Loropio Girls Senior High School. Susan oversees initiatives aimed at providing tech-based education for girls in Kenya.
Muthoni Gakwa - Executive Director of Metis. Muthoni leads a fellowship program supporting gender, climate, and employability innovators in Kenya.
To pitch Gather Ventures, founders should submit their proposals through the official website at gatherventures.org. It is essential to include a detailed business plan, impact metrics, and a clear alignment with the fund's focus on women and climate resilience. Gather Ventures values concise and informative decks that highlight the venture's potential for growth and social impact.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can enhance the chances of securing a meeting with the investment team.
In 2023, Gather Ventures announced its commitment to invest in 25 climate-aligned African startups by 2026, emphasizing its dual mandate of gender and climate impact. The firm has actively supported ventures such as BuildHer and Giraffe Bioenergy, which focus on sustainable practices and economic opportunities for women.
Gather Ventures has gained significant media attention due to its unique positioning in the African venture capital space, particularly its backing by the Clara Lionel Foundation. This partnership has enhanced the fund's visibility and credibility, attracting interest from potential portfolio companies and partners.
What are Gather Ventures' investment criteria?
Gather Ventures focuses on female-led and African-led startups that address climate challenges. They invest in sectors such as agriculture, construction, technology, education, and workforce development. The fund seeks ventures that demonstrate a commitment to sustainable economic growth and climate resilience.
How can I apply or pitch to Gather Ventures?
Founders can pitch their ideas through the Gather Ventures website at gatherventures.org. It is recommended to include a clear outline of the business model, impact metrics, and how the venture aligns with their focus on women and climate.
What makes Gather Ventures different from other investors?
Gather Ventures uniquely combines a dual mandate of gender and climate impact, focusing on female-led and African-led ventures. Their blended capital model allows for flexible financing options, which can be tailored to the specific needs of each startup.
What is the geographic scope of Gather Ventures?
The firm primarily invests in startups based in Africa, targeting ventures that address local challenges and opportunities, particularly those that empower women and promote climate resilience.
What kind of support does Gather Ventures provide to portfolio companies?
Gather Ventures offers financial support along with resources and networks to help portfolio companies scale their impact. They emphasize collaboration and mentorship, ensuring that the ventures they support are equipped to thrive in their respective markets.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, the fund size of approximately $20 million suggests that average investments may range from $250,000 to $1 million, depending on the needs of the portfolio companies.
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.