For second iteration of Africa Venture Finance Program, African VCs will convene at Oxford Saïd
From September 25–29, 40 top fund managers from a few African investment funds will be hosted by the Boost Africa Technical Assistance Facility and the AfricaGrow Technical Assistance Facility for an in-person program at the Sad Business School of the University of Oxford.
When it comes to supporting partner fund managers and their investees, the Boost Africa Technical Assistance Facility, funded by the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States and the European Union, offers specialized assistance. AfricaGrow is a fund of funds with its headquarters in Germany, and it supports SMEs and startups on the African continent.
The first iteration of the Africa Venture Finance Programme, which took place last year, was created specifically for VC fund managers investing in early- and growth-stage African technology companies. The course, which will last a week, will put a strong emphasis on exchanging best practices and knowledge among peers while also offering cutting-edge perspectives and educational opportunities in all pertinent facets of fund management.
The fact that more than half of those in attendance are women highlights the event’s dedication to promoting and celebrating greater gender diversity in the African VC ecosystem. This year, an awards ceremony has also been included in the schedule, honoring outstanding people with distinctions like the “Most Promising Fund Manager” and a “Lifetime Achievement Award,” among others.
Along with the program sponsors, the European Investment Bank (EIB) and KfW Development Bank, the group will also be joined by a notable delegation from development finance institutions (DFIs), including the African Development Bank, Proparco, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
“The EIB has for many years championed innovative African businesses, through its own financing, by encouraging other investors, but also by providing training and the exchange of best practice for the African business sector. With Boost Africa and other initiatives, we support entrepreneurs and innovators across the continent. I am delighted to see the Africa Venture Finance Programme return for a second edition, bringing together bright minds dedicated to supporting successful African businesses,” said Thomas Östros, vice president of the EIB.
