Catalyst Fund

The Catalyst Fund operates as a dedicated pre-seed venture capital fund and venture builder, strategically investing in technology solutions aimed at fostering climate adaptation and resilience across Africa. The firm provides capital investments, typically $200K at the pre-seed stage, with subsequent follow-on support through Seed and Series A rounds. Beyond funding, it delivers intensive, hands-on venture building support, leveraging a team of ex-founders and operators to guide portfolio companies in critical areas such as product development, fundraising, and market growth.

The firm commenced its journey in 2015 as a global accelerator, initially managed by BFA Global, with Maëlis Carraro identified as a founding partner. This initiative emerged from the insight into the critical need for comprehensive support, addressing funding gaps, talent acquisition, and market access for early-stage startups in emerging markets. Its evolution reflects a focused shift towards addressing the specific challenges and opportunities within the climate tech sector on the African continent.

Catalyst Fund primarily serves African startups developing innovative technological solutions for climate resilience. These solutions empower individuals and businesses to mitigate risks, adapt livelihoods, and build long-term resilience against climate impacts, ultimately reaching millions of underserved individuals and micro, small, and medium enterprises. The firm's long-term vision is to cultivate a thriving ecosystem for climate tech innovation in Africa, driving a climate-resilient future through strategic investment and robust operational support.