First Circle Capital, SpeedInvest, and Knife Capital, leading African venture capital (VC) fund managers, have been recognized for their exceptional contributions to supporting promising entrepreneurs and startups across Africa. The awards were presented during the Africa Venture Finance Programme, a week-long course held at Oxford University’s Saïd Business School.
The program, now in its third year, aims to support VC fund managers who invest in early and growth-stage technology companies across the continent. Hosted by Boost Africa and AfricaGrow, the event gathered 41 leading fund managers from 31 African VC funds, creating a platform for collaboration and shared insights.
First Circle Capital’s all-female team received the “Most Promising Fund Manager” award for its focus on investing in early-stage fintech founders. SpeedInvest won the “Best Deal” award for its investment in Nigeria’s Moove, a fast-growing company providing vehicle financing solutions. Meanwhile, Knife Capital’s founding partner, Keet van Zyl, was honored with the “Lifetime Achievement Award” for his lasting contributions to Africa’s venture capital ecosystem.
Read also: Ideas to Investments: Oluwadunni Fanibe’s Journey in African VC.
Furthermore, shortlisted candidates were peer-selected by fellow fund managers, with the final winners determined by a panel of limited partners. The week-long program also brought together funds like Partech, AfricInvest, TLcom Capital, and Norssken22 to discuss innovative solutions to Africa’s unique challenges. Over half of the attendees were women, reflecting growing gender inclusiveness in venture capital leadership.
“We are proud of Boost Africa’s role in supporting a vibrant and resilient VC ecosystem in Africa and helping African entrepreneurs transform their ideas into successful businesses,” said EIB vice-president Ambroise Fayolle. “The EIB is committed to financing new technology and ideas that will address global challenges.”
