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CV VC Expands African Investment Footprint
Global venture firm CV VC, renowned for identifying, investing in, and accelerating frontier technology startups, has strengthened its commitment to Africa’s digital transformation. The firm has now backed 13 African startups across five countries and six industries, including OkHi and Turnstay, underscoring the continent’s potential as a leading growth frontier.
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Focusing on blockchain-enabled infrastructure, CV VC invests in platforms and service providers driving financial inclusion, data transparency, and decentralized ecosystems, cementing its role as a long-term partner in Africa’s technology revolution.
Global Ventures: Purpose Meets Impact
With 77 investments worldwide, CV VC combines direct funding with its proprietary blockchain accelerator program, supporting founders building B2B and B2C platforms that foster economic empowerment, sustainability, and innovation. The firm’s global ecosystem spans hubs in Crypto Valley, Dubai, London, Berlin, Lisbon, and Cape Town, facilitating deep interconnections across frontier technology markets.
Why Africa is a Strategic Investment Focus
“Africa represents one of the most compelling long-term growth opportunities globally. Blockchain can address infrastructure gaps, fragmented value exchange, and inconsistent data, while unlocking new potential across fintech, AI, and decentralized infrastructure,” said Olaf Hannemann, Co-founder, CV VC.
Driving Inclusive Socioeconomic Impact
Beyond financial returns, CV VC emphasizes high-impact outcomes: sustainable growth, job creation, and broadening access to essential services. African startups supported by CV VC are redefining financial markets, data governance, and technological innovation, ensuring lasting value creation for communities.
Africa’s Role in Global Sustainability and Digital Innovation
Africa’s abundant critical minerals, arable land, and energy resources position it as a key player in global sustainability efforts. CV VC’s investments in blockchain infrastructure enhance the continent’s contribution to renewable energy, food security, and AI-driven technological adoption.
Youth-Driven Digital Transformation
With a median age of 19 and projected population of 2.5 billion by 2050, Africa’s young population is driving a mobile-first, digital-first mindset. Innovations in fintech, big data, AI, connectivity, logistics, agriculture, and energy are being accelerated by Generation Alpha. All of these are fueling a new era of inclusive growth.
Accelerating Economic Momentum
Africa’s economic growth is projected at 3.8% in 2025, climbing to 4.4% through 2026–27. CV VC’s local presence enables it to navigate the continent’s diverse markets, and regulatory landscapes. Also included are cultural nuances, and unlocking sustainable opportunities across Africa’s 54 distinct economies.
Portfolio Impact: Africa at Scale
CV VC’s African portfolio already serves 2.5 million users, generates substantial revenue, and employs over 100 people. Notable investments include:
- OkHi (Nigeria): AI-powered digital address verification; 4 million addresses created across 88 countries
- Turnstay (South Africa): Stablecoin-powered cross-border payments for African travel companies
- Shamba Records (Kenya): Farm-to-table digitization increasing farmer income by 30%
- House Africa (Nigeria): Blockchain property validation approved by Lagos State Government
- Kasi (South Africa): Blockchain-powered neobank for gig workers, licensed for credit services
Investment Philosophy & Future Vision
Led by Jarryd Kennedy and Brenton Naicker, CV VC’s African strategy focuses on impact-driven investments. It also focuses on promoting SDGs, digital inclusion, and financial access. The firm is committed to backing founders who combine financial performance with transformative socioeconomic impact.
CV VC will continue to shape Africa’s digital landscape through upcoming events. This includes AfricaArena with SuperReturn Africa, furthering dialogue and investment opportunities across the continent.
