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Sahara Impact Ventures is a female-led investment advisory and venture fund based in Accra, Ghana. Founded in 2023, the organization focuses on addressing climate change and gender disparity by investing in early and early growth stage businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa. The fund emphasizes high-growth sectors that tackle climate change and inequality, particularly in clean energy, food systems, and increased access to essential services.
The firm operates with a dual lens of climate impact and gender equality, aiming to support tech-enabled small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that serve underserved markets. Sahara Impact Ventures is actively deploying capital through its first fund, Sahara Impact Ventures Fund I, and is committed to enhancing the impact and sustainability of its portfolio through technical assistance and strategic guidance.
Sahara Impact Ventures invests in tech-enabled SMEs that are building solutions for underserved markets, particularly through a climate and gender lens. The firm targets sectors such as clean energy, resilient agricultural value chains, healthcare, edtech, and fintech. Their investment strategy includes providing capital ranging from USD $300K to $2M, along with technical assistance to support the growth of their portfolio companies.
The organization emphasizes innovative business models that enhance service delivery and address pressing societal challenges. By focusing on the Just Transition, Sahara Impact Ventures seeks to empower businesses that contribute to sustainable development while promoting gender equality. Their geographic focus primarily includes Ghana and Nigeria, with a broader aim across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Sahara Impact Ventures has made notable investments in several innovative companies:
These portfolio companies exemplify Sahara Impact Ventures' commitment to addressing climate change and gender inequality through innovative solutions in high-growth sectors.
Yvonne Ofosu-Appiah - Cofounder & Managing Partner. Yvonne has extensive experience in investment and advisory roles, focusing on impact-driven ventures.
Mandy Nyarko MBE - Cofounder & Managing Partner. Mandy brings a wealth of knowledge in gender-focused investments and has been recognized for her contributions to social equity.
OluDele Sonekan - Investment Manager. OluDele specializes in identifying and supporting high-potential SMEs in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Lucia Offeibea Sarkwa - Investment Associate, Ghana. Lucia focuses on sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities within the region.
Samuel Frank Chigozirim - Investment Associate, Nigeria. Samuel works on deal sourcing and portfolio management, contributing to the firm's growth strategy.
Nana Afoah Appiah Korang - IC Chair. Nana leads the investment committee, overseeing the evaluation and selection of portfolio companies.
Ruka Sanusi - IC Member. Ruka provides insights and expertise in investment decision-making processes.
Colin Sloand - IC Member. Colin contributes to the strategic direction of the investment committee.
Albert Boateng - Board Member. Albert brings a wealth of experience in governance and strategic oversight.
Arielle Enninful - Board Member. Arielle has a strong background in impact investing and social entrepreneurship.
Bonnie Chiu - Advisory Board Member. Bonnie advises on gender-focused investment strategies and initiatives.
Mark Campanale - Advisory Board Member. Mark provides insights into climate impact investing and sustainability.
To pitch Sahara Impact Ventures, founders should use the application form available on their website. It is important to include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and how the venture addresses climate change or gender inequality. Founders can expect a response within 15 days of submission.
In 2023, Sahara Impact Ventures launched its first fund, Sahara Impact Ventures Fund I, focusing on early and growth-stage investments in tech-enabled SMEs. The firm has actively promoted its mission through its website, detailing its investment strategy and notable portfolio companies.
Recent updates highlight their commitment to addressing climate change and gender inequality, showcasing investments in companies like Wahu Mobility, Agriarche, and Medpharma. These investments exemplify the firm's dedication to supporting innovative solutions in high-growth sectors.
What are Sahara Impact Ventures' investment criteria?
The firm invests in tech-enabled SMEs that address climate change and gender disparity, focusing on sectors like clean energy, healthcare, edtech, and fintech. They target early and early growth stage businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa.
How can I apply or pitch to Sahara Impact Ventures?
Founders can submit inquiries through the application form on their website. The firm typically responds to applications within 15 days.
What makes Sahara Impact Ventures different from other investors?
Sahara Impact Ventures is unique due to its female-led structure and its dual focus on climate impact and gender equality. The firm not only provides capital but also offers technical assistance to help portfolio companies scale effectively.
What is the geographic scope of Sahara Impact Ventures?
The firm primarily focuses on Ghana and Nigeria, with a broader aim across Sub-Saharan Africa, targeting underserved markets in these regions.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Sahara Impact Ventures typically invests between USD $300K and $2M in its portfolio companies, depending on the stage and needs of the business.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Sahara Impact Ventures have?
The firm provides ongoing technical assistance and strategic guidance to its portfolio companies, helping them navigate challenges and scale their operations effectively.
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