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TLcom Capital LLP is a venture capital firm founded in 1999, with a mission to support innovative entrepreneurs in Africa. The firm is headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, and has additional offices in Lagos, Nigeria, and London, United Kingdom. TLcom Capital has managed over $300 million in total capital, currently investing from its TIDE Africa Fund, which has a fund size of $154 million. This fund targets early to growth stage companies across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Over the years, TLcom has established itself as one of the longest-running Africa-focused technology venture capital firms. The firm has a strong reputation, bolstered by backing from significant institutional investors such as the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC). These partnerships enhance TLcom's credibility and ability to support its portfolio companies effectively.
TLcom Capital invests in technology-enabled businesses across various sectors in Sub-Saharan Africa, including AI, fintech, healthcare, edtech, agtech, consumer, mobility, proptech, logistics, and media. The firm targets companies at all stages of development, from pre-seed to growth equity, with investments ranging from $500,000 to $10 million per company. This investment strategy emphasizes addressing underserved markets and generating significant value for entrepreneurs and their communities.
The firm’s investment thesis highlights the importance of African leadership and job creation, aiming to tackle significant challenges on the continent. TLcom Capital seeks to partner with entrepreneurs who leverage technology to create impactful solutions, thereby enhancing operational capabilities and facilitating market expansion for its portfolio companies.
TLcom Capital has built a notable portfolio of companies that exemplify its focus on technology-driven solutions. Key portfolio companies include:
This diverse portfolio reflects TLcom's commitment to investing in businesses that address critical needs within the African market.
Maurizio Caio: Managing Partner with extensive experience in venture capital and private equity, previously at TLcom Capital and other firms.
Omobola Johnson: Senior Partner, known for her expertise in technology and telecommunications, previously served as Minister of Communications in Nigeria.
Andreata Muforo: Partner with a background in investment banking and private equity, focusing on technology investments across Africa.
Eloho Omame: Partner with experience in technology and entrepreneurship, previously co-founded a tech startup in Nigeria.
Philippe Griffiths: Principal with a strong background in venture capital, focusing on early-stage investments in Africa.
Cyril Shonibare: Principal specializing in technology investments, with experience in both venture capital and corporate finance.
Daisy Liech: Director of Portfolio and Strategy, overseeing portfolio management and strategic initiatives.
Sean Smith: Analyst with a focus on market research and investment analysis.
Eniola Ladapo: Analyst supporting investment evaluation and due diligence processes.
Felister Njeru: Financial Controller managing financial operations and reporting.
Samuel Obuya: Financial Accountant responsible for financial management and compliance.
Francesca Iannilli: Director of Operations, overseeing operational efficiency and team management.
Carolyne Wambayi: Office Administrator supporting administrative functions.
Toun Adesiyan: Office Administrator assisting with office management and logistics.
To pitch to TLcom Capital, startups should use the online pitch portal available at tlcomcapital.com/pitch. It is essential to include a detailed business plan, financial projections, and information on market opportunities. TLcom Capital prefers pitches that clearly outline the startup's unique value proposition and how it addresses specific challenges in the African market.
Response times can vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial and can enhance the chances of securing a meeting with the investment team.
TLcom Capital runs several initiatives to support the African tech ecosystem, including a publicly available investor database, a mentorship platform, and a CEO Summit. These programs aim to enhance the capabilities of startups and foster collaboration within the tech community.
Additionally, TLcom has initiatives specifically aimed at supporting female tech entrepreneurs, providing resources and networking opportunities to empower women in the technology sector.
In March 2026, TLcom Capital announced a $5 million investment from its TAPSI pre-seed fund, deploying 50% of the fund with notable investments including $2 million in Turnstay. This activity highlights TLcom's ongoing commitment to supporting early-stage technology ventures in Africa.
Additionally, TLcom Capital is actively deploying its TIDE Africa Fund II, which closed at $154 million, making it Africa's largest early-stage VC fund. This fund focuses on innovative entrepreneurs leveraging technology to address challenges in the region.
What are TLcom Capital's investment criteria?
TLcom Capital focuses on technology-enabled businesses across various sectors in Sub-Saharan Africa. They invest in companies at all stages, from pre-seed to growth equity, with check sizes ranging from $500,000 to $10 million.
How can startups apply or pitch to TLcom Capital?
Startups can pitch to TLcom Capital through their dedicated pitch portal at tlcomcapital.com/pitch. It is advisable to include a comprehensive business plan and details on how the startup addresses market needs.
What makes TLcom Capital different from other venture capital firms?
TLcom Capital emphasizes African leadership and job creation, focusing on technology-driven solutions that address significant challenges in the region. Their extensive experience and institutional backing provide a unique advantage in supporting portfolio companies.
What is TLcom Capital's geographic scope?
TLcom Capital primarily invests in Sub-Saharan Africa, with a strong focus on technology-enabled businesses that can scale within this market.
What kind of post-investment involvement does TLcom Capital have?
TLcom Capital actively supports its portfolio companies by providing access to capital, industry expertise, and a robust network of contacts to facilitate growth and strategic partnerships.
What is the size of TLcom Capital's funds?
TLcom Capital currently manages over $300 million, with the TIDE Africa Fund being its largest at $154 million, targeting early to growth stage investments.
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