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Sherpa Ventures is a venture capital firm established in December 2020 to support startup founders across Africa. The firm is headquartered in Africa and focuses on investing in companies that are developing transformative technologies. Sherpa Ventures is particularly active in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa, aiming to uplift the broader African business ecosystem through its investments.
The firm operates with a fund size of $1 million, primarily targeting pre-seed and seed stage investments. Sherpa Ventures has built a portfolio of 12 companies, showcasing its commitment to fostering innovation in key sectors such as fintech, energy, and retail. The firm’s approach includes providing market insights, facilitating strategic partnerships, and assisting in talent acquisition, which are crucial for the growth of its portfolio companies.
Sherpa Ventures invests in startups at the pre-seed and seed stages, with a strong emphasis on sectors including fintech, energy, and retail. The firm targets innovative companies that can contribute to the transformation of the African business landscape. Their investment strategy is centered around providing comprehensive support, which includes market insights, strategic partnerships, and assistance in talent acquisition.
Geographically, Sherpa Ventures focuses on Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa, where it seeks to identify and back startups that are poised for growth. The firm typically invests between $25,000 and $50,000 per deal, aiming for an equity target of approximately 5%. This operator-led, founder-backed approach allows Sherpa Ventures to align closely with the needs of its portfolio companies, ensuring they are well-prepared for follow-on capital.
Sherpa Ventures has a diverse portfolio of 12 companies that exemplify its focus on transformative technology in Africa. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects Sherpa Ventures' commitment to supporting startups that are not only innovative but also have the potential to make a significant impact on the African economy.
Aaron Fu: General Partner, previously with Twiga Foods, brings extensive experience in venture investments and has been instrumental in the firm's strategy since its inception.
Nik Patel: Founding Partner, formerly with IROKO, has a strong background in media and technology investments.
Alastair Curtis: Founding Partner, previously with Uber, specializes in scaling operations and market entry strategies.
Alex Bashian: Chair of the Investment Committee, has a wealth of experience in venture capital and strategic investments.
Lexi Novitske: Investment Committee Member & Advisor, known for her expertise in African markets and startup ecosystems.
Kamal Bhattacharya: Investment Committee Member & Advisor, brings a strong background in technology and operational excellence.
Emilian Popa: Investment Committee Member & Advisor, focuses on financial technology and market strategies.
Grant Brooke: Investment Committee Member & Advisor, has experience in scaling startups and operational management.
To pitch Sherpa Ventures, founders should visit their pitch page at sherpa.africa. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan, market analysis, and information on the founding team. The firm prefers pitches that clearly outline the startup's potential impact on the African market.
Response times may vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
As of 2022, Sherpa Ventures has maintained a portfolio of 12 companies, focusing on transformative technology in Africa. The firm has not publicly announced any new investments or exits since then, indicating a potential pause in deal activity.
In 2025, Aaron Fu transitioned to the Digital Currency Group as Director of Venture Investments, raising questions about the continuity of Sherpa Ventures' operations and future fund activities.
What are Sherpa Ventures' investment criteria?
Sherpa Ventures focuses on pre-seed and seed stage investments in sectors such as fintech, energy, and retail. They seek startups that are developing transformative technologies and can contribute to the African business ecosystem.
How can I pitch to Sherpa Ventures?
Founders interested in pitching to Sherpa Ventures can visit their pitch page at sherpa.africa. It is advisable to include a clear business model and market insights in the pitch.
What makes Sherpa Ventures different from other investors?
Sherpa Ventures is operator-led and founder-backed, which means they provide not just capital but also strategic support, market insights, and assistance in talent acquisition to their portfolio companies.
What is the geographic focus of Sherpa Ventures?
The firm primarily invests in startups located in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa, aiming to uplift the broader African business ecosystem.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Sherpa Ventures typically invests between $25,000 and $50,000 per deal, targeting an equity stake of around 5%.
What kind of post-investment support does Sherpa Ventures provide?
Post-investment, Sherpa Ventures offers market insights, facilitates strategic partnerships, and assists in preparing companies for follow-on capital, ensuring that their portfolio companies are well-positioned for growth.
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