Mazao Hub Sprouts Success with Catalyst Fund's Backing

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This week, we shine a light on Mazao Hub, a groundbreaking Tanzanian AgriTech startup that's empowering farmers with the power of data.

First up, they've secured investment from Catalyst Fund, a $40m pre-seed high-impact VC fund and accelerator, partnering with founders building tech solutions for climate adaptation and resilience. This makes Mazao Hub the second Tanzanian startup to join Catalyst Fund's portfolio this year after Medikea – a major win for the country's innovation scene.

But that's not all! Mazao Hub's groundbreaking work has earned them a spot among the top 15 Climate Tech startups in Africa for the prestigious #AfricaTechAwards at VivaTech, Europe's biggest startup and tech event.

Why Catalyst Fund is Backing Mazao Hub?

What Catalyst Fund offer?

Are you building tech solutions for climate adaptation and resilience partner with Catalyst Fund and receive 100K $ in cash, 100K $ in venture building and access to global investors.

Africa is set to become a global hub for agritech

• 70% of population employed in the agriculture sector.

• 90% of the market for digital services that support African smallholders remains untapped and could be worth over $2.2-billion.

• According to the African Development Bank, Africa's food and agriculture market could increase from US$280 billion a year in 2023 to US$1 trillion by 2030.

The Big Question: Is Tech the New Agriculture Path?

• Between 2016 and 2019 the agritech sector grew by 44% year-on-year.

• Smallholder farmers account for 80% of the farming community, and it’s predicted that up to 200 million smallholders will be registered for agritech solutions by 2030.

• Mobile connectivity is predicted to reach over 55 percent by 2030.

• Climate change is prompting growth in sustainable agricultural practices

Top Agritech VCs in Africa

• TLcom Capital

•  Partech Africa

• 4DX Ventures

The untapped Agriculture potential

Despite Africa promising to be a leading agritech hub, to reach it potential investment is needed in inputs, infrastructure and markets.

DeveloPPP Ventures Pitch Competitions Take Flight!

The VC4A team has landed in East Africa, kicking off an epic two-week journey alongside develoPPP Ventures from April 19th to 29th . The kick off of the Tanzanian pitch competition took place on Friday (April 22nd) with more than 10 startups showcase their game-changing ideas to a panel of esteemed judges.

These startups are vying for a life-changing matching grant of EUR 100,000, plus invaluable technical support, to supercharge their businesses.

Tunzaa HQ (Fintech): Makes saving easier through a "Save Now, Buy Later" model, promoting financial inclusion.

Bizy Tech Limited (AgTech): Uses AI and satellite imagery to offer personalized advice to farmers, helping them adapt to climate change.

Healthy Seaweed Co. Limited (Food & Health): Promotes healthy eating and women empowerment with seaweed-based foods.

Capsele Limited (HealthTech): Connects patients to doctors online, improving access to healthcare.

Africanetic Company Limited (Gas Fasta) (Cleantech): Delivers cooking gas efficiently, making it more affordable and promoting clean energy.

Kilimo Maendeleo (AgTech): Creates a digital platform for agricultural transactions, benefiting farmers and promoting sustainable practices.

Hanny g investment (Cleantech): Produces smokeless briquettes from sawdust for cleaner cooking and reduced air pollution.

Kilimo Fresh Foods Africa LTD (AgTech): Connects smallholder farmers to markets by processing and delivering their produce.

Yebi Health (HealthTech): Streamlines the medical supply chain, making medicine more accessible.

Simplify Tanzania (FinTech): Offers a cost-effective platform for businesses to issue invoices and comply with tax regulations.

Imara Tech (AgTech): Provides affordable machinery to smallholder farmers, boosting their productivity.

Tip of the week: Think Like an Investor

When evaluating a startup, a crucial factor for investors is "access to the market opportunity." This refers to the ease with which the startup can reach its target customers and capture a significant share of the market. It considers factors like the size and accessibility of the target market, the strength of competitors, and the effectiveness of the startup's go-to-market strategy. A strong access to the market opportunity suggests the startup has a clear path to growth and profitability.

Funding spotlight

Calling all changemakers! Here's a roundup of exciting funding opportunities to fuel your ventures:

GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize Competition (USD 50K): Calling all #agrifood champions! Are you tackling food security, climate change, or developing innovative solutions to feed the planet? Apply by June 10th

TEFConnect WE4A Program: Calling African women entrepreneurs! Drive Africa's green revolution with resources, mentorship, and networking through the TEFConnect WE4A Program.

Energy Efficiency Innovation Challenge: Tanzanian innovators can pilot their sustainable energy projects and secure funding from the Embassy of Ireland and the European Union.

Is Winning the ONLY Goal?

No! The application process forces you to refine your idea. Even if you don't get the funding, the feedback can be more valuable than the money itself.

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