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12 African startups that have announced the largest funding rounds so far in 2022

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African startups have been raising larger funding rounds than ever before, as investors turn their attention to the new continent full of promising opportunities and untapped markets. This 12-part series will highlight the 12 biggest funding rounds announced in Africa in 2018 so far, showcasing some of the most innovative companies on the continent and giving you an inside look at how they’re using these funds to scale their operations. So without further ado, here are 12 African startups that have announced the largest funding rounds so far in 2022!

12 African startups

In the last four years, many African startups have raised impressive amounts of funding, with some reaching as high as $100 million in investments. These are the 12 startups that have announced the largest funding rounds so far in 2022. We’ve been waiting with bated breath to see which African startups are going to announce the largest funding rounds this year and it seems like the wait is finally over. The following 12 startups have announced the biggest rounds in Africa so far in 2022, which we believe will make an impact in their respective industries for years to come.

About Africa Startups

By now, you’ve probably heard about Kenyan-born tech startup founders like Patrick Collison and John Kunle. This new wave of Africa-born entrepreneurs is bringing capital back to Africa, but what about all of those millions of other people who are working on their own innovative products? Here are 12 African startups that have announced a large funding round (over $1 million) between Jan. These 12 companies represent different industries ranging from agriculture to aerospace. Each company has created a unique way to solve one of Africa’s most pressing problems by using technology as a platform for innovation.

Each company tackles a different problem facing Africa. The tusk is an all-female dating network and job board, specifically targeted toward young, career-oriented black women. The startup was founded by American Harvard graduate Kristina Bui who also has Ugandan roots. Not only does she see herself as a female founder creating something for other females but also believes that there aren’t many role models for young black women who are just beginning their careers.

Read More: Total (HR) Human Resources Internship Programme 2022 for young South Africans

12 African startups that have announced the most significant funding rounds so far

Already, was a significant drop in the amount raised by African startups over the past few months, especially compared to how much was raised during the first two months of the year. For context, African startups could barely raise $300 million in equity funding between April and May 2022. Whereas in Q1 2022 they raised about $1.8 billion, according to data tracked by Business Insider Africa.

This notwithstanding, there are good reasons to be optimistic. The main reason is that African startup funding grew by 150% in Q1 2022, outperforming other regions of the world. And even though the performance in Q2 hasn’t exactly been encouraging, there is a strong possibility of a rebound before the end of June and going forward.

Read More: List of STEM Scholarships for African Women 2022/ About STEM

As always, many of them are concentrated in Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Egypt. See below.

1. Flutterwave:

In February this year, Flutterwave announced a $250 million Series D funding round that was led by B Capital Group, as well as participation from Alta Park Capital, Whale Rock Capital, Lux Capital, and others. So far this year, the Nigerian fintech giant remains the only player in the ecosystem that has raised over $200 million in a single round.

2. Wasoko:

In March, this Kenyan e-commerce player announced that it had secured $125 million in a Series A2 funding round that was led by Tiger Global and Avenir Growth Capital. It also rebranded from Sokowatch to Wasoko.

3. InstaDeep:

This Tunisian artificial intelligence startup announced in January that it had raised $100 million in a Series B funding round, led by Alpha Intelligence Capital and CDIB Capital.

4. Instabug:

In May, this Egyptian anti-malware startup raised $46 million in a Series C round that was led by Insight Partners.

5. Apollo Agriculture:

Also in March, this Kenyan Agritech startup raised $40 million in a Series B funding round that was led by Softbank.

6. Reliance Health:

Back in February, this healthtech startup raised $40 million in Series A, led by General Atlantic, with participation from Partech, Arvantis Social Foundation, and others.

7. Copia Global:

This Kenyan e-commerce startup announced that it had raised $50 million in a Series C round that was led by Godwell Investors, alongside Zebu Investment Partners and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation.

8. VALR:

This African crypto exchange raised $50 million in Series B in March, led by Pantera Capital, Alameda Research, Cadenza, and others.

Read More: Eni-Oxford MBA Africa Scholarship 2022 for African Students at University of Oxford

9. Clickatell:

This Africa-focused chat commerce startup announced in February that it sealed a $91 million Series C funding round that was led by Arrowroot Capital, with participation from Kennedy Lewis Investment Management and Endeavor Global, and Harvest.

10. M-KOPA:

In March this year, this asset-financier secured $75 million in growth equity from Generation Investment Management and Broadscale Group. Previous investors, including CDC Group and Light rock, also participated.

11. Moove:

In March, this mobility fintech company announced that it had raised $65 million in Series A equity funding and another $40 million in debt funding; thus bringing the total to $105 million. The equity round was led by Speedinvest, Left Lane Capital, and The Latest Ventures.

12. Market Force:

Lastly, we have Market Force which also raised $40 million in Series A in February. Led by V8 Capital Partners, with participation from Ten13 VC, SOSV Select Fund, Vu Ventures, and Vastly Valuable Ventures.

In Conclusion

We’ve highlighted 12 of Africa’s most promising startups, looking to raise hundreds of millions through Series B or Series C. Most of these companies are e-commerce businesses; however, there are a few other industries represented as well. From logistics to transportation, and even peer-to-peer lending and drone tech—there is no shortage of innovation taking place on our continent. These 12 businesses represent only a small percentage of exciting and ambitious companies working hard to make their mark on Africa and beyond.

Read More: Google Scholarship recipients 2022/US and Canada/Europe and Africa

Whether it’s drone tech, peer-to-peer lending, or internet security; these are just a few of countless ventures attempting to make their mark on Africa. These 12 businesses represent only a small percentage of exciting and ambitious companies working hard to make their mark on Africa and beyond. I want you to realize how much potential our continent has for innovation, success, and for many more home-grown successes like these.

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Top 10 Universities in the USA

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top universities in the USA: Education is the cornerstone of personal and professional development, and choosing the right university is a crucial decision that can shape one’s future. (more…)

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Top 10 Online Colleges in the US

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Online Colleges has revolutionized the way people access higher learning opportunities. With the advancement of technology, students now have access to top-tier education from the comfort of their homes. (more…)

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University of Colorado’s Unmatched Academic Legacy

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As we delve into the rich tapestry of its academic legacy, we uncover a realm where excellence is not just a goal but a tradition upheld with unwavering commitment.

A Glimpse into History

Nestled against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, the University of Colorado stands as a testament to academic excellence and innovation. As we embark on a journey through its storied past, we gain a profound understanding of the institution’s founding vision and the remarkable academic legacy it has crafted over the years.

The University of Colorado Boulder, called CU Boulder for short, lays against the majestic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Boulder is a lively college town with more than 80 miles of biking and walking trails. In the evenings, students can travel anywhere within the city limits for free in CU NightRide shuttles, which run until 1:15 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 12:15 a.m. all other nights. On campus, there are more than 450 student clubs and organizations and about 20 fraternities and sororities. Freshmen must live on campus.

Colorado Buffaloes

The Colorado Buffaloes compete in the NCAA Division I Pac-12 Conference. The student athletes, called Buffs for short, are supported by two buffalo mascots: a costumed student called Chip and a live animal named Ralphie V. The university stresses its commitment to volunteer efforts like Better Boulder Day of Service, a day of community service in the surrounding neighborhoods.

For trips off campus, there are 11 ski slopes within 3 hours of campus, and Rocky Mountain National Park is 45 miles away. A bit closer is Denver, the state capital, where students can catch professional sports matches or concerts in the unique outdoor concert hall, Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

CU Boulder is the only school in the Rocky Mountain Region to make it into the Association of American Universities, an elite group of 62 research universities. The university has highly ranked graduate programs through the College of Engineering and Applied Science and School of Education.

Its Law School stresses experiential learning through clinics, externships, competitions and pro bono work. CU Boulder graduates are immediately inducted into the dues-free alumni association, Forever Buffs, whose particularly distinguished members include “South Park” creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone and sportscasters Chris Fowler and Jim Gray.

The Founding Vision

Founded in 1876, the University of Colorado stands as a testament to the visionary leaders who sought to create an institution that would shape minds and elevate society. Its establishment coincided with the centennial year of the United States, a symbolic inception that heralded a new era in education.

Academic Prowess Over the Years

From its humble beginnings, the university has evolved into a powerhouse of knowledge, offering a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs. Boasting an esteemed faculty and cutting-edge research facilities, the institution has consistently pushed the boundaries of academic excellence.

Academic Programs: Where Innovation Meets Education

Diverse Range of Programs

One of the university’s standout features is its extensive array of academic programs. Ranging from the arts and sciences to engineering and business, the University of Colorado caters to the varied interests and career aspirations of its students. This diversity ensures that every individual finds their academic niche.

Emphasis on Research

At the heart of the university’s academic philosophy lies a profound commitment to research. Students are not just passive learners; they are actively engaged in groundbreaking research initiatives that contribute to advancements in various fields. The university’s research centers serve as hubs of innovation, fostering an environment where curiosity thrives.

Faculty Excellence

World-Class Faculty

A university is only as exceptional as its faculty, and the University of Colorado takes pride in its distinguished professors and educators. Comprising experts and thought leaders in their respective fields, the faculty brings real-world experience and a passion for teaching to the classrooms.

Mentorship Culture

Beyond traditional lectures, the university fosters a mentorship culture where students have access to personalized guidance. This approach not only enhances the learning experience but also prepares students for the challenges and opportunities that await them beyond the academic realm.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Cutting-Edge Infrastructure

The University of Colorado understands the pivotal role that infrastructure plays in shaping the learning environment. State-of-the-art facilities, modern libraries, and technologically advanced classrooms create an atmosphere where education transcends traditional boundaries.

Collaborative Spaces

In a world where collaboration is key, the university provides students with collaborative spaces that encourage teamwork and creativity. Whether it’s a research project or a group assignment, students have access to spaces that foster collaboration and innovation.

Campus Life

Vibrant Campus Culture

Education is not confined to the classrooms at the University of Colorado; it permeates every aspect of campus life. The vibrant campus culture, characterized by diverse student organizations, cultural events, and athletic activities, ensures that students receive a holistic education that goes beyond textbooks.

Athletics Excellence

Speaking of athletics, the university takes pride in its sports legacy. From competitive teams to state-of-the-art sports facilities, the University of Colorado provides a platform for students to excel in sports, fostering a spirit of discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

List Of Universities and Colleges in Colorado

1. Colorado School of Mines

There are many opportunities at the Colorado School of Mines for students who want to work in science. The School of Public Engineering and Applied Science in Golden, Colorado, Mines has 14 academic departments, including mechanical engineering and geophysics. The school also offers courses in the Liberal Arts & International Studies and Economics & Business departments. When students are not studying, the location of the school is ideal for outdoor recreation. Golden is 13 miles from the state capital of Denver and sits in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains where students can bike, hike and climb. There is also a climbing wall on campus for students to test their skills before attempting the rocky mountains.

Cold-weather sports fans can attend the annual Winter Carnival, a student event full of skiing and snowboarding at the local resort. Known as the Orediggers, Mines’ sports teams compete in the NCAA Division II Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference, which is mostly made up of other teams from Colorado. The school mascot is Blaster the Burro, and the giant “M” emblazoned on nearby Mount Zion stands for school spirit. There are more than 140 student clubs and organizations, including seven fraternities and three sororities. First-year students must live on campus. Even the student newspaper, The Oredigger, is decidedly science-based; sections include a weekly roundup of new discoveries and a Geek of the Week feature.

Undergraduate and graduate students have research opportunities in the Science and Engineering Center for Research on Renewable Energy Materials and the Institute for Unconventional Natural Gas and Petroleum, two powerhouses for energy innovation on campus. The campus is also home to a geological museum where admission is free and students can view exhibits ranging from moon rocks to fossilized dinosaur tracks. Mining graduates receive some of the highest-paying starting salaries in the country, and graduates excel as engineers, scientists and entrepreneurs. Notable alumni include Andrew Swiger, senior vice president and chief financial officer of ExxonMobil, and Harold M. Korell, executive chairman of Southwestern Energy.

2. University of Colorado Boulder

The University of Colorado Boulder, CU Boulder for short, sits against the majestic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Boulder is a vibrant college town with over 80 miles of biking and walking trails. In the evenings, students can travel anywhere within the city for free on the CU NightRide shuttle, which runs until 1:15 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and until 12:15 a.m. all other nights. There are more than 450 student clubs and organizations and about 20 fraternities and sororities on campus. Freshmen must live in a dormitory.

The Colorado Buffaloes compete in the NCAA Division I Pac-12 Conference. Student athletes, called the Buffs for short, are supported by two buffalo mascots: a costumed student named Chip and a live animal named Ralphie V. The university highlights its commitment to volunteer efforts such as Better Boulder Day of Service, a day of community service in surrounding neighborhoods. For off-campus trips, there are 11 ski slopes within 3 hours of campus and Rocky Mountain National Park is 45 miles away. A little closer is Denver, the state capital, where students can catch professional sports games or concerts at the unique outdoor concert hall Red Rocks Amphitheater.

CU Boulder is the only school in the Rocky Mountain region to make it into the Association of American Universities, an elite group of 62 research universities. The university has highly rated graduate programs through the College of Engineering and Applied Science and the School of Education. Its law school emphasizes experiential learning through clinics, internships, competitions and pro bono work. CU Boulder graduates are immediately inducted into the Forever Buffs, a no-fee alumni association, whose notable members include “South Park” creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone and sportscasters Chris Fowler and Jim Gray.

3. University of Denver

The University of Denver campus spans 125 acres and is located just a few miles from downtown Denver. Students interested in living among the Colorado Rockies can study at the university’s Kennedy Mountain campus. DU is also home to the well-regarded Sturm College of Law.

Students can join more than 100 student clubs and organizations, including nearly 20 fraternities and sororities. Freshmen and sophomores, with exceptions, must live on campus. Student athletes compete on the Denver Pioneers sports teams who are members of the NCAA Division I Summit League. The school’s ski team has won more national championships than any other program in the country.

Notable alumni include Condoleezza Rice, former US Secretary of State; Michelle Kwan, Olympic medalist in figure skating; Chris Broderick, former guitarist of the heavy metal band Megadeth; and James Cox Kennedy, chairman emeritus and former CEO of telecommunications company Cox Enterprises.

4. Colorado State University

Colorado State University is located in Fort Collins, a medium-sized city in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, less than an hour north of Denver. And Colorado State, also known as CSU, offers more than 150 degrees across eight colleges, with graduate programs in business, engineering and education schools and the renowned College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. CSU is considered one of the leading research universities, and faculty and students collaborate to investigate fields such as atmospheric science, infectious diseases, clean energy technology, and environmental science.

Outside the classroom and research lab, students can join more than 350 university organizations, including about 35 fraternities and sororities. Student athletes can find sports at the recreational, club and varsity levels, featuring the CSU mascot and colors that reflect the school’s past. CSU began as an agricultural school, so the sports teams were called Aggies and their colors were green and gold to represent agriculture. The school stuck with the colors, but more than 15 varsity sports teams are now called the Rams. Competes in the NCAA Division I Mountain West Conference.

5. University of Colorado Denver

The main campus of the University of Colorado Denver is located downtown, with the Anschutz Medical Campus located a few miles to the east in Aurora. Students at CU Denver, as it is known, can choose from more than 130 areas of study, including master’s degrees in business, engineering and education. CU Denver has several highly rated health programs, including nursing and physical therapy. Students at CU Denver can benefit from their hard work in the classroom by visiting the Scholarship Resource Office, which helps them track scholarships, polish their resumes, and edit essays.

In their free time, CU Denver students can get involved in more than 100 campus organizations, as well as student government, ROTC, The Advocate student newspaper, and volunteer opportunities. CU Denver students can also experience the outdoor opportunities offered by the Rocky Mountains and Denver’s festivals, rodeos, museums and sports teams. CU Denver does not offer varsity athletic teams on campus, but students can join intramural sports and “healthy movement” classes such as Pilates and yoga.

6. University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado campus is located in Greeley, about 50 miles northeast of Denver. Undergraduates at the University of Northern Colorado can choose from more than 100 bachelor’s degree programs. The school also offers more than 100 master’s degree programs, including education and health.

UNC is home to the Marcus Garvey Center for Black Cultural Education and the Cesar Chavez Cultural Center, which supports Latino students. Students can also check out UNC’s campus centers for Native American, Asian, and Pacific Islander cultures.

Outside of the classroom, University of Northern Colorado students can get involved in approximately 150 organizations, about 20 fraternities and sororities, and the Student Senate. Student athletes can try out for the UNC Bears varsity sports teams that compete in various NCAA Division I conferences. Notable UNC alumni include actor Greg Germann, who appeared on the television series “Ally McBeal” as well as the film “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby.”

7. United States Air Force Academy

The United States Air Force Academy, commonly called the Air Force, is a military academy located just outside of Colorado Springs, Colorado, about 60 miles from Denver. Air Force students, called cadets, follow a strict daily schedule that doesn’t allow for much free time, although there are a number of extracurricular clubs and activities. Incoming cadets undergo a five-week training program to prepare them for military life. Cadets are required to participate in athletics – either intercollegiate or intramural – and must pass a fitness test each semester. The Fighting Falcons, the Air Force track and field teams, compete in the NCAA Division I and are known for their traditional rivalry with their fellow Army and Navy academies.

Air Force academics focus on a core curriculum that all cadets must complete. Although the core curriculum includes most academic experiences, cadets must also choose a specialized field of study from over 30 possible fields. Military training continues over four years with the Air Force, including courses and instruction in aviation and flying. The Air Force, like other service academies, follows an honor code that says, “We will not lie, steal, or cheat, nor will we tolerate among ourselves anyone who does.” Notable alumni include Gregg Popovich, head coach of the NBA’s San Antonio Spurs, and Chesley Sullenberger, a pilot famous for safely landing a commercial flight on the Hudson River near New York in 2009.

8. Colorado College

There is no such thing as a typical semester at Colorado College. Instead of taking a full course like students at most other schools, CC students take one class every three and a half weeks according to the school’s block schedule. Classes are small and can last as long as the teacher needs, with no set end time. Each month, students get a four and a half day block break to recharge before starting a new course.

In total, students complete eight classes per year. When students are not in the classroom, they can experience all that the Colorado landscape has to offer. CC is located in Colorado Springs at the base of Pikes Peak where students can hike, bike and climb. In addition, the Student Outdoor Recreation Committee facilitates trips such as hiking, cross-country skiing, kayaking, and ice climbing.

On campus, students can participate in annual events such as Winter Ball, a formal dance, and CC Llamapalooza, a music festival. Volunteerism is another focus of the student body: All first-year students are required to complete a service trip before their freshman year. Later in their studies, students also have the opportunity to participate in the Community Engaged Leadership Certificate Program.

CC has a small Greek community with three fraternities and three sororities. The college has Division I women’s soccer and men’s ice hockey teams; all other CC Tigers teams compete in the NCAA Division III Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference. Most students stay close to many of the activities on campus at CC, as freshmen, sophomores, and juniors, with few exceptions, must live in college dormitories.

The teacher-student relationship is encouraged outside the classroom as well. Faculty members are reimbursed by the college when they host students in their homes for dinner. It’s called the Breaking Bread program, and faculty members host a total of about 200 events a year. Notable CC alumni include former Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar, U.S. Representative Diana DeGette, and Nobel Prize in Economics winner James Heckman.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Colorado University stands tall as an institution dedicated to nurturing not just students but future leaders and innovators. Its commitment to academic excellence, combined with a vibrant campus life, creates an environment where learning is not just a pursuit but a transformative journey.

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