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Silverbacks Holdings is an alternative investment firm founded in 2019 and headquartered in Mauritius. The firm specializes in private investments in high-growth companies across Africa, with a focus on sectors such as technology, sports, entertainment, and the creative economy. Silverbacks Holdings partners with founders who demonstrate product-market fit, aiming to amplify their market reach while creating job opportunities, particularly for youth and women-led enterprises.
As of now, Silverbacks Holdings manages a portfolio of 10 companies and employs three distinct investment approaches: indirect, direct, and fully owned investments. The firm targets an average return of 3x to 5x on its investments, reflecting its commitment to both financial performance and social impact. The firm’s strategic focus on Africa positions it uniquely to capitalize on the continent's growing markets.
Silverbacks Holdings invests primarily in tech-enabled businesses that can capture growing pools of export-oriented revenues. The firm prioritizes sectors such as fintech, healthcare, media, entertainment, and digital health. Investment stages include Seed, Series A, and Growth Equity, allowing the firm to engage with companies at various points in their development.
The firm employs three investment approaches: indirect, direct, and fully owned investments. This flexibility allows Silverbacks to adapt its strategy based on the specific needs of the businesses it supports. The firm looks for companies that demonstrate strong product-market fit and aims to create job opportunities, particularly for youth and women-led companies, aligning its investment strategy with broader social goals.
Silverbacks Holdings has built a diverse portfolio that includes notable companies such as:
Ibrahim Sagna: Chairman with extensive experience in investment management and strategic development.
Nana Afoah Appiah-Korang: Executive Board Member, previously involved in various high-growth ventures across Africa.
Nima Yussuf: Executive Board Member with a background in technology investments and entrepreneurship.
Dina Kamel: Executive Board Member, specializing in market expansion strategies for startups.
Nousrath Bhugeloo: Non-Executive Board Director with expertise in financial services and investment.
Amira elAdawi: Non-Executive Board Director, focusing on social impact investments.
Guillaume Castel: Non-Executive Board Director with a background in venture capital.
Eli Talmor: Chair of the Advisory Board, known for his work in international finance.
Dr. N'Gunu Tiny: Vice-Chair of the Advisory Board, specializing in economic development in Africa.
Paxton K. Baker: Advisory Board Member with a focus on media and entertainment investments.
Oluwatosin Ajibade (Mr. Eazi): Advisory Board Member, a prominent figure in the music industry.
Manoj Narender Madnani: Advisory Board Member with experience in technology and innovation.
SANFORD R. CLIMAN: Advisory Board Member, known for his expertise in media and entertainment.
Boris Kodjoe: Advisory Board Member, an actor and entrepreneur with interests in creative industries.
Pepsi Pokane: Advisory Board Member with a focus on community development.
Burak Alici: Advisory Board Member with a background in international business.
Margaret O'Connor: Advisory Board Member specializing in social entrepreneurship.
Alan Chan: Advisory Board Member with expertise in finance and investment.
Dr. Eelco Fiole, CFA: Advisory Board Member, known for his work in investment analysis.
Vymala Poligadu-Thuron: Advisory Board Member with a focus on sustainable investments.
Siddik Bakir: Advisory Board Member with experience in venture capital.
To pitch to Silverbacks Holdings, founders should visit their website at Silverbacks Holdings. The firm prefers detailed pitch decks that include information on the business model, market analysis, and team qualifications. While there is no specific application form mentioned, a well-structured presentation is essential.
Response times may vary, but founders should expect a thorough review process. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
In recent months, Silverbacks Holdings has actively expanded its portfolio, adding notable companies such as Flutterwave and NERGii. The firm continues to emphasize partnerships with founders who can leverage their products for broader market reach. This expansion reflects Silverbacks' commitment to investing in high-growth sectors across Africa.
As of October 2023, the firm has not publicly announced any new fund raises or leadership changes, but its ongoing investments signal a strong interest in the African market.
What are Silverbacks Holdings' investment criteria?
Silverbacks Holdings invests in tech-enabled businesses across various sectors, including fintech, healthcare, media, and entertainment. The firm looks for companies that demonstrate strong product-market fit and have the potential for significant growth.
How can founders apply or pitch to Silverbacks Holdings?
Founders can submit their pitches through the official website at Silverbacks Holdings. The firm encourages detailed presentations that highlight the business model, market opportunity, and team capabilities.
What makes Silverbacks Holdings different from other investors?
Silverbacks Holdings emphasizes social impact alongside financial returns. The firm aims to create job opportunities, particularly for youth and women-led companies, which sets it apart from many traditional venture capital firms.
What is the geographic scope of Silverbacks Holdings' investments?
The firm focuses exclusively on the African market, targeting high-growth companies that can leverage the continent's unique opportunities.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Silverbacks Holdings invests at various stages, including Seed, Series A, and Growth Equity, indicating a flexible approach to funding.
What is the expected return on investments?
Silverbacks Holdings targets an average return of 3x to 5x on its investments, reflecting its commitment to achieving significant financial performance.
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