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Knife Capital is a venture capital investment manager founded in 2010 and based in Cape Town, South Africa. The firm specializes in accelerating the international expansion of African innovation-driven businesses by leveraging knowledge, networks, and funding. Knife Capital originated from the South African division of 'Here Be Dragons,' which laid the groundwork for its initial portfolio.
Currently, Knife Capital manages multiple funds, including Knife Fund I, Knife Fund II (KNF Ventures), and Knife Fund III, with a total AUM of approximately $50 million. The firm focuses on innovation-driven small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Africa and has expanded its reach to include global opportunities. Knife Capital has established a reputation as one of Africa's most exit-rich VC firms, with notable milestones including successful exits from companies like Fundamo, orderTalk, and CSense.
Knife Capital operates from its offices in Cape Town, London, and Jersey, and is a member of the South African Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (SAVCA). The firm continues to support its portfolio companies through structured programs and strategic guidance, enhancing their marketability and exit readiness.
Knife Capital invests in innovation-driven SMEs, particularly those in the fintech, healthcare, edtech, and AI sectors. The firm targets companies at the seed, Series A, and growth equity stages, with a focus on businesses that have a well-defined product, recurring revenues, and a clear governance process. Their investment strategy emphasizes supporting companies that address significant market needs and demonstrate impressive management teams and high gross margins.
The firm seeks businesses with proven traction, strong intellectual property, and clear exit options, particularly those with the potential for international success. Knife Capital's structured investment approach is designed to enhance the scalability of its portfolio companies, ensuring they are well-positioned for growth in both local and global markets.
Knife Capital's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies across various sectors, showcasing its commitment to innovation and technology. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies exemplify Knife Capital's focus on high-growth B2B technology firms with the potential for international expansion. The firm has a history of successful exits, including Fundamo, acquired by VISA for approximately $110 million, and orderTalk, acquired by Uber Eats.
Keet van Zyl: Partner at Knife Capital, Keet has extensive experience in venture capital and private equity, focusing on technology-driven investments. He has been instrumental in leading several successful portfolio companies.
Vivienne van der Westhuizen: Group CFO, Vivienne oversees the financial operations of Knife Capital, ensuring effective fund management and compliance. She has a strong background in finance and investment management.
Catherine Young: Partner, Catherine specializes in identifying high-potential startups and guiding them through the investment process. Her expertise lies in technology and innovation.
Thandiwe Maqetuka: Investment Associate, Thandiwe supports the investment team in evaluating potential deals and managing portfolio companies. She brings a fresh perspective to the firm.
Davey Gant: Partner, Davey has a wealth of experience in venture capital and is focused on scaling portfolio companies. He plays a key role in strategic decision-making.
Johnathan Smit: Investment Manager, Johnathan is responsible for sourcing new investment opportunities and conducting due diligence on potential portfolio companies.
To pitch to Knife Capital, founders should visit their website at knifecap.com or email info@knifecap.com. A detailed pitch deck is essential, including information on the business model, market opportunity, and team. Knife Capital prefers to receive pitches via email and typically responds within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
Knife Capital operates the **Grindstone Accelerator**, a structured entrepreneurship program launched in 2013. This program supports earlier-stage South African tech startups through a year-long curriculum designed to enhance their marketability and exit readiness. Startups interested in participating can apply through the Knife Capital website.
In August 2023, Knife Capital successfully closed its third fund, Knife Fund III, with a total size of $50 million. This fund focuses on Series B expansion for African tech companies scaling globally.
Recent investments from Knife Fund III include early-stage investments in DataProphet, which provides AI-enabled process optimization, and Kasha, a digital health access platform.
Knife Capital continues to be active in the venture capital space, with a strong track record of successful exits, including notable companies like Fundamo, acquired by VISA for approximately $110 million, and orderTalk, acquired by Uber Eats.
What are Knife Capital's investment criteria?
Knife Capital invests in innovation-driven SMEs with a well-defined product, recurring revenues, and a clear governance process. They focus on sectors such as fintech, healthcare, edtech, and AI.
How can I apply or pitch to Knife Capital?
Founders can pitch their ideas through the Knife Capital website at knifecap.com or by emailing info@knifecap.com. A detailed pitch deck should be included, outlining the business model, market opportunity, and team.
What makes Knife Capital different from other VC firms?
Knife Capital emphasizes a structured investment approach, focusing on high-growth B2B technology companies with international expansion potential. Their strong network and resources enhance the marketability and exit readiness of portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of Knife Capital's investments?
While Knife Capital primarily focuses on African innovation-driven businesses, they also seek global opportunities, particularly in sectors where they have expertise.
What is the typical fund size and check size for investments?
Knife Capital's current fund size is approximately $50 million, with average check sizes around $3 million for initial investments, allowing for follow-on funding as needed.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Knife Capital have?
Knife Capital provides strategic guidance, access to a robust network, and resources to enhance the marketability and exit readiness of its portfolio companies. They also operate the Grindstone Accelerator to support startups in scaling effectively.
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