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.
HAVAÍC is an early-stage venture capital fund manager based in Cape Town, South Africa. Founded in 2016, the firm focuses on investing in and supporting impactful, high-growth, post-revenue African technology startups with global prospects. HAVAÍC aims to facilitate the success of emerging African businesses through technology adoption and strong advisory relationships, ensuring they can thrive in a competitive global market.
Currently, HAVAÍC manages a portfolio of 22 companies across various sectors, with a fund size of $50 million. The firm operates primarily in South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya, targeting early-stage investments that demonstrate significant growth potential. HAVAÍC has established a reputation for its strong exit track record, highlighted by notable exits such as RapidDeploy and hearX Group.
HAVAÍC invests in early-stage, high-growth technology businesses across Africa, specifically targeting sectors such as FinTech, HealthTech, SafeTech, Digital Business Solutions, Ecommerce, SportTech, LogisticsTech, and AgriTech. The firm emphasizes supporting local businesses that provide real-world solutions and have the potential for profitable exits. HAVAÍC aims for targeted annual investment returns exceeding 30%.
The investment strategy encompasses pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, and Series A funding stages. HAVAÍC primarily operates in South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya, focusing on startups that demonstrate the potential for international expansion. The firm seeks founders who are committed to building scalable businesses and who possess a clear vision for their company's growth.
HAVAÍC has invested in a diverse range of sectors, showcasing its commitment to supporting high-growth technology startups. The portfolio includes:
Notable exits from the portfolio include RapidDeploy, which was sold to Motorola Solutions, and hearX Group, which merged with US-listed Eargo, raising $100 million.
Ian Lessem - Managing Partner. Ian has extensive experience in venture capital and has led multiple successful investments in the African tech space.
Rob Heath - Partner. Rob specializes in technology investments and has a strong background in supporting startups through their growth phases.
Kiara Suttner-Tromp - Partner. Kiara focuses on health-related technologies and has a keen interest in innovative solutions that address healthcare challenges.
Tyrone Moodley - Principal. Tyrone has a background in finance and plays a crucial role in evaluating potential investments.
Ismaeel Abrahams - Associate. Ismaeel supports the investment team in due diligence and portfolio management.
Madimetja Mashilo - Associate. Madimetja assists in sourcing new deals and managing relationships with portfolio companies.
Ilke Kemp - Investment Support & Administration. Ilke provides administrative support to the investment team.
Berit Fehrenbacher - Investment Support & Administration. Berit assists with operational tasks related to portfolio management.
Nicola Venter - Investment Support & Administration. Nicola supports the team with various administrative functions.
Rob Hamer - Investment Committee Chair. Rob brings significant experience in venture capital and oversees the investment committee's decisions.
To pitch to HAVAÍC, founders should send an email to info@havaic.com. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market analysis, competitive landscape, and financial projections. HAVAÍC prefers detailed information that demonstrates the startup's growth potential and scalability.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
In 2025, HAVAÍC achieved notable exits with RapidDeploy being sold to Motorola Solutions, marking one of the largest tech exits in South African history. Additionally, hearX Group merged with US-listed Eargo, raising $100 million in April 2025.
HAVAÍC's African Innovation Fund 3 (AIF3) launched in 2024 with a target of $50 million, achieving a third close with over $30 million committed. Recent investments from AIF3 include SAPay, Sportable, NjiaPay, and SwiftVEE.
What are HAVAÍC's investment criteria?
HAVAÍC focuses on early-stage, high-growth technology startups in Africa, particularly in sectors like FinTech, HealthTech, and SafeTech. The firm seeks businesses that are post-revenue and have the potential for international expansion.
How can startups apply or pitch to HAVAÍC?
Startups can pitch to HAVAÍC by sending an email to info@havaic.com. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch deck.
What makes HAVAÍC different from other venture capital firms?
HAVAÍC distinguishes itself through its strong advisory relationships and a proven track record of successful exits, including RapidDeploy and hearX Group. The firm emphasizes technology adoption and supports its portfolio companies in scaling internationally.
What is HAVAÍC's geographic scope?
The firm primarily operates in South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya, focusing on African-born startups with global scalability.
What is the typical fund size and check size for HAVAÍC?
HAVAÍC manages a fund size of $50 million and typically invests in early-stage rounds, including pre-seed, seed, and Series A funding. Specific check sizes vary based on the stage and needs of the startup.
What kind of post-investment involvement does HAVAÍC have?
HAVAÍC provides strong advisory support to its portfolio companies, facilitating technology adoption and leveraging its network to assist in growth and international expansion.
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.