African Startup Landscape in Focus

By Rabab Zehra – Executive Editor at TECHx

The upcoming North Star Africa Morocco event presents a potential avenue for startups and investors to explore the evolving landscape of African ventures. With insights from the Briter Bridges Africa Investment Report 2023 highlighting a vibrant ecosystem, the event could offer valuable connections and insights.

Investor Appetite for Early Engagement:

• The report reveals a thriving ecosystem, with 46 new investment funds launched and early-stage deals exceeding 2022’s records by 11%.
• This suggests an increased investor interest in engaging with and supporting startups at earlier stages, potentially maximizing value creation.

Shifting Investment Focus:

• While traditionally, the “Big Four” of Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt attracted most investment, the trend is changing.
• Countries like Ghana and Tunisia are witnessing increased deal volume, indicating diversification beyond the established hubs.

Digital Finance Remains Dominant:

• The report confirms digital finance as the leading sector, capturing 30% of 2023’s funding.
• This highlights the continued significance of fintech in tackling Africa’s infrastructure challenges and driving broader economic development.

Event Scope and Potential Benefits:

• North Star Africa Morocco aims to connect startups with leading investors, VCs, and funds managing over $100 billion.
• The event also offers access to expert advice from African incubators and accelerators, alongside insights from industry leaders.
• Participation could provide startups with exposure to potential funders, market access, and opportunities to refine their strategies.

The North Star Africa Morocco event presents a platform for startups and investors seeking to engage with the evolving African business landscape. While its effectiveness for individual ventures remains to be seen, the event’s focus on early-stage engagement, diversifying investment, and key sectors like digital finance could present valuable opportunities for participants.