Novastar Ventures

Sistema.bio is a manufacturer of prefabricated modular biodigester systems aimed at enhancing the efficiency and quality of life for small farmers. The company's systems utilize anaerobic bacteria to convert manure and various organic waste types into methane gas and organic fertilizer. This biogas can be harnessed for thermal energy used in cooking and generating electricity, while the fertilizer supports agricultural productivity. By transforming organic waste into valuable resources, Sistema.bio enables farmers to turn a potential problem into opportunities for increased productivity and sustainability.

BasiGo is an e-mobility start-up focused on transforming public transportation in Kenya and Rwanda by providing electric buses as a sustainable alternative to diesel. The company operates under a pay-as-you-go model, which includes maintenance and battery charging services, facilitating the transition for bus owners to adopt electric vehicles. BasiGo's electric buses are designed to operate throughout the day on a single charge, utilizing proven battery technology that offers a reliable and economical solution amidst rising diesel costs. By making electric buses more accessible, BasiGo aims to enhance the efficiency of public transport while contributing to environmental sustainability.

BasiGo is an e-mobility start-up focused on transforming public transportation in Kenya and Rwanda by providing electric buses as a sustainable alternative to diesel. The company operates under a pay-as-you-go model, which includes maintenance and battery charging services, facilitating the transition for bus owners to adopt electric vehicles. BasiGo's electric buses are designed to operate throughout the day on a single charge, utilizing proven battery technology that offers a reliable and economical solution amidst rising diesel costs. By making electric buses more accessible, BasiGo aims to enhance the efficiency of public transport while contributing to environmental sustainability.

MoKo Home + Living is a Nairobi-based company that specializes in the design, manufacturing, and retailing of home furniture products. Founded in 2014, the company primarily focuses on sofas and mattresses, offering a range of options including three, four, and six-seater sofas equipped with removable covers, velcro and zip closures, and side pockets for convenience. Additionally, MoKo provides footstools and emphasizes durability and modern design in its offerings, catering to the specific needs of consumers. Customers can conveniently place orders through social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp, and the company also facilitates home delivery of its products.

Turaco Inc., established in 2018 and headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, is an insurance technology company specializing in providing affordable health and life insurance solutions to low-income individuals. It offers a range of products, including health loans and insurance, delivered through a user-friendly mobile application and online platform. Turaco's mission is to make healthcare financing accessible and affordable, enabling customers to manage risks and obtain necessary medical care at budget-friendly monthly premiums.

iProcure Ltd is a Nairobi-based company that operates a supply chain platform focused on optimizing agricultural input distribution in rural Africa, particularly in Kenya. Founded in 2012, iProcure provides a comprehensive solution that integrates business intelligence and data-driven stock management to enhance the operations of agricultural retailers. The platform enables retailers to manage inventory, point-of-sale activities, and customer profiles while leveraging geo-located purchasing patterns and real-time transaction analysis. Additionally, iProcure facilitates mobile payments, allowing retailers to better predict demand and improve overall inventory management. By offering an alternative distribution channel, the company ensures that agricultural products reach end consumers effectively, thereby streamlining distribution and enhancing customer service. iProcure also provides warehousing and storage facilities to support its logistics operations.

TeamApt is a financial technology company that develops digital banking and payment platform for financial transactions. It offers an end-to-end omnichannel digital banking service called Moneytor Digital Banking, enabling banks to offer retail, merchant, and corporate banking services through digital channels, Aptpay for automation of digital banking business operations, settlements, reconciliations, and tracks digital transformation processes with web and mobile interfaces. TeamApt was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria.

BasiGo is an e-mobility start-up focused on transforming public transportation in Kenya and Rwanda by providing electric buses as a sustainable alternative to diesel. The company operates under a pay-as-you-go model, which includes maintenance and battery charging services, facilitating the transition for bus owners to adopt electric vehicles. BasiGo's electric buses are designed to operate throughout the day on a single charge, utilizing proven battery technology that offers a reliable and economical solution amidst rising diesel costs. By making electric buses more accessible, BasiGo aims to enhance the efficiency of public transport while contributing to environmental sustainability.

Poa Internet Ltd. is a telecommunications company based in Nairobi, Kenya, founded in 2015. It specializes in providing low-cost internet services to individuals and small businesses in low-income neighborhoods, particularly in areas like Kibera and Kwangware. The company offers affordable and reliable internet access that is significantly cheaper than traditional network operators. Poa's services are delivered through a Wi-Fi network that covers entire neighborhoods, allowing users to connect with any Wi-Fi-enabled device at any time. Unique to Poa is its transparent pricing model, which includes data bundles without time limitations, as well as free content and online tools such as job boards and marketplaces. By focusing on underserved communities, Poa Internet aims to enhance access to education, trade, and social inclusion while ensuring improved quality of internet connections at accessible prices.

Regen Organics is dedicated to transforming agriculture, cities, and communities through innovative circular economy methods. The company specializes in managing residual organics in a climate-resilient agricultural sector, focusing on the manufacture and delivery of regenerative fertilizers, feeds, and fuels. By developing green technologies, Regen Organics aims to promote nurturing soils and thriving ecosystems, facilitating a sustainable future for the planet. With a commitment to environmental stewardship and a strong foundation of industry knowledge, the company seeks to drive meaningful change in agricultural practices and community development.

MAX is a company that specializes in providing motorcycle taxi and transport services, focusing on the last-mile delivery and online retail challenges in Africa. By utilizing mobile and web platforms, MAX connects consumers, retail businesses, and independent drivers in real-time, effectively removing logistical and technological barriers that have hindered retail growth on the continent. Additionally, MAX offers electric and low-emission vehicle subscription services tailored for commercial drivers, promoting financial freedom and wealth creation through vehicle ownership. The company aims to ensure that independent drivers have access to safe, reliable, and sustainable mobility solutions, thereby enhancing the overall transport landscape in Africa.

TradeDepot Inc. is a technology-driven distribution platform based in Lagos, Nigeria, founded in 2016. The company aims to revolutionize the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector in Africa by connecting top consumer goods companies directly with retailers. TradeDepot's SaaS platform offers features such as predictive trade intelligence, real-time stock level access, and the ability to place bulk orders online. It also enables the auto-generation of sales promotions, helping to enhance sales and streamline operations. By focusing on improving the distribution of food, beverages, and personal care products, TradeDepot seeks to build the largest retail distribution network in Africa and improve the livelihoods of retail store owners. The company also has an office in Wilmington, Delaware, reflecting its commitment to expanding its reach and impact.

Ignitia AB is a Swedish company that specializes in providing high-resolution weather forecasts and climate data specifically for tropical regions, with a focus on Sub-Saharan Africa. Established in 2015, the company utilizes advanced technology to deliver hyper-local weather updates via SMS based on GPS location, significantly benefiting small-scale farmers. Ignitia offers a range of services, including daily, monthly, and seasonal rain forecasts, short-term forecasting, climate statistics, and early warnings for storms and extreme weather. Its forecasting capabilities are tailored to the unique weather patterns of the tropics, where convection plays a crucial role in precipitation. By enabling farmers to make informed decisions based on accurate weather predictions, Ignitia aims to improve agricultural productivity and resilience in low- and middle-income countries. The company is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden.

Moniepoint is a financial technology company that offers a comprehensive digital banking and payment ecosystem tailored for small and medium-sized businesses. The platform provides a range of services, including payment processing, credit access, and business management tools. Moniepoint enables businesses to create accounts and accept payments through various offline and online channels, facilitating efficient financial management. By integrating banking solutions with essential business tools, Moniepoint supports organizations in managing their finances and accessing the resources necessary for growth.

Elephant Healthcare Limited is a technology company established in 2018 and located in London, United Kingdom. The company focuses on designing and developing a digital health system aimed at addressing critical challenges in global healthcare. Founded by medical professionals, Elephant Healthcare leverages extensive medical knowledge to create a global digital health network that connects various components of the healthcare ecosystem. Its software platform digitizes medical clinics, enabling enhanced connectivity and offering tools that can transform primary care. By utilizing blockchain and decentralized infrastructure, the platform links existing healthcare services and facilitates the development of new health applications, ultimately aiming to improve patient care and reduce costs, particularly in low-income regions.

Turaco Inc., established in 2018 and headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, is an insurance technology company specializing in providing affordable health and life insurance solutions to low-income individuals. It offers a range of products, including health loans and insurance, delivered through a user-friendly mobile application and online platform. Turaco's mission is to make healthcare financing accessible and affordable, enabling customers to manage risks and obtain necessary medical care at budget-friendly monthly premiums.

Sure Chill is a company specializing in innovative cooling technology that operates without a power source. By utilizing the unique properties of water, it provides continuous cooling at a consistent temperature of 4ºC, making it suitable for various environments worldwide. Since its introduction to the medical market in 2011, Sure Chill's vaccine refrigerators have surpassed the stringent standards of the World Health Organization and are utilized by organizations such as UNICEF to protect vaccines and save lives in 46 countries. The technology is particularly beneficial in developing countries, enhancing vaccine delivery and maintaining the integrity of essential medicines and food in areas with unreliable electricity. Sure Chill's advancements in the cold chain have garnered recognition, including a significant award from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to further improve vaccine distribution.

Komaza is a tech-driven sustainable forestry company founded in 2006 by Tevis Howard. It focuses on transforming the wood industry in Africa through its innovative farmer platform, which integrates technology, training, and services. By partnering with rural farmers to establish virtual plantations and plant woodlots, Komaza aims to create a sustainable wood supply while significantly reducing costs compared to traditional plantations. This approach not only addresses the growing demand for wood and wood products but also empowers small-holder farmers, enabling them to contribute to solving the wood supply crisis in the region.

mPharma is a healthcare company focused on enhancing access to affordable medications in emerging markets. Founded in 2013 by Gregory Rockson, Daniel Shoukimas, and James Finucane, mPharma collaborates with drug manufacturers, insurance providers, financial institutions, and governments to streamline the delivery of prescription drugs to consumers. The company offers a pharmaceutical data analytics platform that assists pharmacies in managing their inventory, prescribing medications, and reporting adverse drug reactions. By ensuring that high-quality chronic disease medications are consistently available at sustainable prices, mPharma aims to improve health outcomes for patients, doctors, and pharmacists alike.

Sure Chill is a company specializing in innovative cooling technology that operates without a power source. By utilizing the unique properties of water, it provides continuous cooling at a consistent temperature of 4ºC, making it suitable for various environments worldwide. Since its introduction to the medical market in 2011, Sure Chill's vaccine refrigerators have surpassed the stringent standards of the World Health Organization and are utilized by organizations such as UNICEF to protect vaccines and save lives in 46 countries. The technology is particularly beneficial in developing countries, enhancing vaccine delivery and maintaining the integrity of essential medicines and food in areas with unreliable electricity. Sure Chill's advancements in the cold chain have garnered recognition, including a significant award from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to further improve vaccine distribution.

MAX is a company that specializes in providing motorcycle taxi and transport services, focusing on the last-mile delivery and online retail challenges in Africa. By utilizing mobile and web platforms, MAX connects consumers, retail businesses, and independent drivers in real-time, effectively removing logistical and technological barriers that have hindered retail growth on the continent. Additionally, MAX offers electric and low-emission vehicle subscription services tailored for commercial drivers, promoting financial freedom and wealth creation through vehicle ownership. The company aims to ensure that independent drivers have access to safe, reliable, and sustainable mobility solutions, thereby enhancing the overall transport landscape in Africa.

iProcure Ltd is a Nairobi-based company that operates a supply chain platform focused on optimizing agricultural input distribution in rural Africa, particularly in Kenya. Founded in 2012, iProcure provides a comprehensive solution that integrates business intelligence and data-driven stock management to enhance the operations of agricultural retailers. The platform enables retailers to manage inventory, point-of-sale activities, and customer profiles while leveraging geo-located purchasing patterns and real-time transaction analysis. Additionally, iProcure facilitates mobile payments, allowing retailers to better predict demand and improve overall inventory management. By offering an alternative distribution channel, the company ensures that agricultural products reach end consumers effectively, thereby streamlining distribution and enhancing customer service. iProcure also provides warehousing and storage facilities to support its logistics operations.

Soko, Inc. is a Kenya-based company that operates an online platform for handcrafted jewelry and accessories, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. Founded in 2011, Soko connects over 2,300 independent artisans throughout Kenya to the global marketplace using mobile technology. The company has developed a virtual factory model that responds efficiently to demand while providing economic opportunities for marginalized artisans, who earn significantly more than those in traditional workshops. Soko distinguishes itself through its commitment to social impact and is certified as a B Corporation, appealing to Millennials and Gen Z consumers who prioritize brands that align with their values. With additional offices in Nairobi, San Francisco, and New York, Soko aims to empower artisans and promote sustainable economic development.

GreenPath Food, Inc. is a company based in Butajira, Ethiopia, specializing in the production and sale of avocados and a variety of other organic fruits and vegetables, including African bird’s eye chili, edamame, lemongrass, moringa, and rosemary. The company is dedicated to supporting smallholder farmers by promoting sustainable farming practices that are environmentally friendly and organic. By utilizing a permaculture-based agriculture model, GreenPath enhances the production of nutritious crops, leading to increased yields and higher incomes for farmers. This approach incentivizes a shift away from less nutritious crops that rely on synthetic chemicals and pesticides, ultimately benefiting both the land and human health. Additionally, the emphasis on organic farming not only provides consumers with fresh produce but also encourages healthier eating habits among farmers and their families.

mPharma is a healthcare company focused on enhancing access to affordable medications in emerging markets. Founded in 2013 by Gregory Rockson, Daniel Shoukimas, and James Finucane, mPharma collaborates with drug manufacturers, insurance providers, financial institutions, and governments to streamline the delivery of prescription drugs to consumers. The company offers a pharmaceutical data analytics platform that assists pharmacies in managing their inventory, prescribing medications, and reporting adverse drug reactions. By ensuring that high-quality chronic disease medications are consistently available at sustainable prices, mPharma aims to improve health outcomes for patients, doctors, and pharmacists alike.

MoKo Home + Living is a Nairobi-based company that specializes in the design, manufacturing, and retailing of home furniture products. Founded in 2014, the company primarily focuses on sofas and mattresses, offering a range of options including three, four, and six-seater sofas equipped with removable covers, velcro and zip closures, and side pockets for convenience. Additionally, MoKo provides footstools and emphasizes durability and modern design in its offerings, catering to the specific needs of consumers. Customers can conveniently place orders through social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp, and the company also facilitates home delivery of its products.

PayGo Energy is a Kenyan company founded in 2014 that develops and manufactures metering systems for pre-paid cooking gas. Its innovative technology allows customers to monitor their gas consumption and predict when their supply will run low, facilitating timely refills. By utilizing a pay-as-you-go model, the company enables households to purchase clean cooking fuel within their budget through mobile money transactions. This approach addresses the significant environmental and health issues associated with traditional cooking methods that rely on biomass fuels, which affect underserved communities globally. The company's system links gas cylinders with a cloud service and mobile connectivity, thereby enhancing the accessibility and efficiency of clean energy solutions for everyday cooking needs.

GreenPath Food, Inc. is a company based in Butajira, Ethiopia, specializing in the production and sale of avocados and a variety of other organic fruits and vegetables, including African bird’s eye chili, edamame, lemongrass, moringa, and rosemary. The company is dedicated to supporting smallholder farmers by promoting sustainable farming practices that are environmentally friendly and organic. By utilizing a permaculture-based agriculture model, GreenPath enhances the production of nutritious crops, leading to increased yields and higher incomes for farmers. This approach incentivizes a shift away from less nutritious crops that rely on synthetic chemicals and pesticides, ultimately benefiting both the land and human health. Additionally, the emphasis on organic farming not only provides consumers with fresh produce but also encourages healthier eating habits among farmers and their families.

Penda Health Limited operates a network of outpatient medical centers in Kenya, specifically in Umoja and Kitengela, focused on providing high-quality and affordable healthcare to middle- and low-income families. Founded in 2011, Penda Health offers a wide range of services, including general consultations, specialty consultations by OB/GYNs, diagnostics, lab services, and pharmacy services. The company utilizes advanced technology, including AI-powered tools, to enhance clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes. Recognized for its patient-centered approach, Penda Health emphasizes operational excellence and community impact, having successfully served millions of patients. Its commitment to accessible and effective healthcare has established Penda Health as a trusted brand in Africa's healthcare landscape.

SolarNow is a company focused on providing solar energy and financing solutions in East Africa, with its headquarters in Nijmegen, Netherlands, and branch locations in Uganda and Kenya. Founded in 2011 by Willem Nolens, SolarNow manufactures high-quality solar home systems designed to meet the energy needs of both rural and urban households, as well as entrepreneurs and institutions. The company addresses the unmet demand for solar power services by offering a range of products, including solar home systems and electrical appliances. Additionally, SolarNow provides affordable and flexible credit options, enabling customers to access clean, reliable, and affordable energy solutions for households, small businesses, farming, and corporate needs.

Komaza is a tech-driven sustainable forestry company founded in 2006 by Tevis Howard. It focuses on transforming the wood industry in Africa through its innovative farmer platform, which integrates technology, training, and services. By partnering with rural farmers to establish virtual plantations and plant woodlots, Komaza aims to create a sustainable wood supply while significantly reducing costs compared to traditional plantations. This approach not only addresses the growing demand for wood and wood products but also empowers small-holder farmers, enabling them to contribute to solving the wood supply crisis in the region.

iProcure Ltd is a Nairobi-based company that operates a supply chain platform focused on optimizing agricultural input distribution in rural Africa, particularly in Kenya. Founded in 2012, iProcure provides a comprehensive solution that integrates business intelligence and data-driven stock management to enhance the operations of agricultural retailers. The platform enables retailers to manage inventory, point-of-sale activities, and customer profiles while leveraging geo-located purchasing patterns and real-time transaction analysis. Additionally, iProcure facilitates mobile payments, allowing retailers to better predict demand and improve overall inventory management. By offering an alternative distribution channel, the company ensures that agricultural products reach end consumers effectively, thereby streamlining distribution and enhancing customer service. iProcure also provides warehousing and storage facilities to support its logistics operations.

Poa Internet Ltd. is a telecommunications company based in Nairobi, Kenya, founded in 2015. It specializes in providing low-cost internet services to individuals and small businesses in low-income neighborhoods, particularly in areas like Kibera and Kwangware. The company offers affordable and reliable internet access that is significantly cheaper than traditional network operators. Poa's services are delivered through a Wi-Fi network that covers entire neighborhoods, allowing users to connect with any Wi-Fi-enabled device at any time. Unique to Poa is its transparent pricing model, which includes data bundles without time limitations, as well as free content and online tools such as job boards and marketplaces. By focusing on underserved communities, Poa Internet aims to enhance access to education, trade, and social inclusion while ensuring improved quality of internet connections at accessible prices.

PayGo Energy is a Kenyan company founded in 2014 that develops and manufactures metering systems for pre-paid cooking gas. Its innovative technology allows customers to monitor their gas consumption and predict when their supply will run low, facilitating timely refills. By utilizing a pay-as-you-go model, the company enables households to purchase clean cooking fuel within their budget through mobile money transactions. This approach addresses the significant environmental and health issues associated with traditional cooking methods that rely on biomass fuels, which affect underserved communities globally. The company's system links gas cylinders with a cloud service and mobile connectivity, thereby enhancing the accessibility and efficiency of clean energy solutions for everyday cooking needs.

Poa Internet Ltd. is a telecommunications company based in Nairobi, Kenya, founded in 2015. It specializes in providing low-cost internet services to individuals and small businesses in low-income neighborhoods, particularly in areas like Kibera and Kwangware. The company offers affordable and reliable internet access that is significantly cheaper than traditional network operators. Poa's services are delivered through a Wi-Fi network that covers entire neighborhoods, allowing users to connect with any Wi-Fi-enabled device at any time. Unique to Poa is its transparent pricing model, which includes data bundles without time limitations, as well as free content and online tools such as job boards and marketplaces. By focusing on underserved communities, Poa Internet aims to enhance access to education, trade, and social inclusion while ensuring improved quality of internet connections at accessible prices.

iProcure Ltd is a Nairobi-based company that operates a supply chain platform focused on optimizing agricultural input distribution in rural Africa, particularly in Kenya. Founded in 2012, iProcure provides a comprehensive solution that integrates business intelligence and data-driven stock management to enhance the operations of agricultural retailers. The platform enables retailers to manage inventory, point-of-sale activities, and customer profiles while leveraging geo-located purchasing patterns and real-time transaction analysis. Additionally, iProcure facilitates mobile payments, allowing retailers to better predict demand and improve overall inventory management. By offering an alternative distribution channel, the company ensures that agricultural products reach end consumers effectively, thereby streamlining distribution and enhancing customer service. iProcure also provides warehousing and storage facilities to support its logistics operations.

Lynk Jobs Limited operates a digital platform that connects informal workers with customers seeking various services, including housekeeping, plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, Lynk allows users to describe the projects or tasks they need assistance with and queries professionals that match those descriptions. The platform provides quotes from verified professionals and manages the logistics of service delivery. In addition to connecting service providers and customers, Lynk offers training courses aimed at personal and professional development for its workers. By addressing the challenges faced by informal workers and the households and businesses that require their services, Lynk facilitates effective recruitment, smart job matching, and a customer rating system that helps workers build their skills profiles.

PayGo Energy is a Kenyan company founded in 2014 that develops and manufactures metering systems for pre-paid cooking gas. Its innovative technology allows customers to monitor their gas consumption and predict when their supply will run low, facilitating timely refills. By utilizing a pay-as-you-go model, the company enables households to purchase clean cooking fuel within their budget through mobile money transactions. This approach addresses the significant environmental and health issues associated with traditional cooking methods that rely on biomass fuels, which affect underserved communities globally. The company's system links gas cylinders with a cloud service and mobile connectivity, thereby enhancing the accessibility and efficiency of clean energy solutions for everyday cooking needs.

Sanergy, Inc. focuses on enhancing sanitation infrastructure in urban slums, particularly in Nairobi, Kenya. Established in 2010, the company builds a network of low-cost sanitation centers equipped with essential facilities such as toilets and showers. These centers are then franchised to local entrepreneurs, with financial support from microfinance institutions. Sanergy not only provides access to hygienic sanitation but also collects human waste daily for processing. This waste is converted into valuable byproducts, including organic fertilizers and renewable energy through a biogas generation process. The organic fertilizers are sold to both commercial farms and smallholder farmers, while the generated biogas is used to produce electricity for sale. Sanergy's mission is to promote public health and environmental sustainability by creating an efficient and equitable sanitation system that addresses the needs of underserved urban communities.

Regen Organics is dedicated to transforming agriculture, cities, and communities through innovative circular economy methods. The company specializes in managing residual organics in a climate-resilient agricultural sector, focusing on the manufacture and delivery of regenerative fertilizers, feeds, and fuels. By developing green technologies, Regen Organics aims to promote nurturing soils and thriving ecosystems, facilitating a sustainable future for the planet. With a commitment to environmental stewardship and a strong foundation of industry knowledge, the company seeks to drive meaningful change in agricultural practices and community development.

NewGlobe is a company that focuses on transforming public education systems by leveraging technology and software solutions. It partners with national and state governments to create technology-enabled education systems aimed at enhancing learning outcomes. NewGlobe's comprehensive platform offers adaptive instructional content, digital learning tools, and extensive training and coaching for educators. By implementing these solutions, the company seeks to provide every child with access to quality education that fosters their full potential and promotes growth and prosperity. Through its efforts, NewGlobe aims to achieve rapid and significant improvements in educational outcomes on a global scale.

Soko, Inc. is a Kenya-based company that operates an online platform for handcrafted jewelry and accessories, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. Founded in 2011, Soko connects over 2,300 independent artisans throughout Kenya to the global marketplace using mobile technology. The company has developed a virtual factory model that responds efficiently to demand while providing economic opportunities for marginalized artisans, who earn significantly more than those in traditional workshops. Soko distinguishes itself through its commitment to social impact and is certified as a B Corporation, appealing to Millennials and Gen Z consumers who prioritize brands that align with their values. With additional offices in Nairobi, San Francisco, and New York, Soko aims to empower artisans and promote sustainable economic development.

Poa Internet Ltd. is a telecommunications company based in Nairobi, Kenya, founded in 2015. It specializes in providing low-cost internet services to individuals and small businesses in low-income neighborhoods, particularly in areas like Kibera and Kwangware. The company offers affordable and reliable internet access that is significantly cheaper than traditional network operators. Poa's services are delivered through a Wi-Fi network that covers entire neighborhoods, allowing users to connect with any Wi-Fi-enabled device at any time. Unique to Poa is its transparent pricing model, which includes data bundles without time limitations, as well as free content and online tools such as job boards and marketplaces. By focusing on underserved communities, Poa Internet aims to enhance access to education, trade, and social inclusion while ensuring improved quality of internet connections at accessible prices.

Penda Health Limited operates a network of outpatient medical centers in Kenya, specifically in Umoja and Kitengela, focused on providing high-quality and affordable healthcare to middle- and low-income families. Founded in 2011, Penda Health offers a wide range of services, including general consultations, specialty consultations by OB/GYNs, diagnostics, lab services, and pharmacy services. The company utilizes advanced technology, including AI-powered tools, to enhance clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes. Recognized for its patient-centered approach, Penda Health emphasizes operational excellence and community impact, having successfully served millions of patients. Its commitment to accessible and effective healthcare has established Penda Health as a trusted brand in Africa's healthcare landscape.

Sanergy, Inc. focuses on enhancing sanitation infrastructure in urban slums, particularly in Nairobi, Kenya. Established in 2010, the company builds a network of low-cost sanitation centers equipped with essential facilities such as toilets and showers. These centers are then franchised to local entrepreneurs, with financial support from microfinance institutions. Sanergy not only provides access to hygienic sanitation but also collects human waste daily for processing. This waste is converted into valuable byproducts, including organic fertilizers and renewable energy through a biogas generation process. The organic fertilizers are sold to both commercial farms and smallholder farmers, while the generated biogas is used to produce electricity for sale. Sanergy's mission is to promote public health and environmental sustainability by creating an efficient and equitable sanitation system that addresses the needs of underserved urban communities.

Hivisasa is an online news platform based in Nairobi, Kenya, founded in 2011. It specializes in publishing a diverse range of content, including sports, entertainment, business, politics, crime, obituaries, weddings, and opinion pieces. As Africa’s first crowdsourced news site, Hivisasa empowers its readers not only to access untold stories but also to contribute by writing their own. The platform attracts over two million readers monthly and supports a community of over 1,500 local writers. Committed to fostering community engagement and accountability, Hivisasa emphasizes the importance of local perspectives in its editorial approach, ensuring that all its editors collaborate closely with writers from various backgrounds to deliver relevant news to its audience.

M-Farm Ltd. operates MFarm, a marketplace solution that connects smallholder farmers in Kenya with urban and export markets through a digital platform accessible via SMS and the web. Founded in 2010 and based in Nairobi, the company addresses the challenges faced by the majority of Kenya's farmers, who often lack access to fair market opportunities and face exploitation by middlemen. By negotiating with buyers and ensuring quality through a network of agents, M-Farm encourages farmers to transition from subsistence farming to cash crops, thus enhancing food security. The company provides farmers with up-to-date market prices and access to agricultural training, which improves crop yields and product quality. In turn, buyers benefit from a reliable source of organic produce, transparency in the supply chain, and stable, pre-negotiated prices that protect them from market volatility. M-Farm's innovative approach aims to empower smallholder farmers while meeting the increasing demand for quality agricultural products.

Soko, Inc. is a Kenya-based company that operates an online platform for handcrafted jewelry and accessories, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. Founded in 2011, Soko connects over 2,300 independent artisans throughout Kenya to the global marketplace using mobile technology. The company has developed a virtual factory model that responds efficiently to demand while providing economic opportunities for marginalized artisans, who earn significantly more than those in traditional workshops. Soko distinguishes itself through its commitment to social impact and is certified as a B Corporation, appealing to Millennials and Gen Z consumers who prioritize brands that align with their values. With additional offices in Nairobi, San Francisco, and New York, Soko aims to empower artisans and promote sustainable economic development.

Komaza is a tech-driven sustainable forestry company founded in 2006 by Tevis Howard. It focuses on transforming the wood industry in Africa through its innovative farmer platform, which integrates technology, training, and services. By partnering with rural farmers to establish virtual plantations and plant woodlots, Komaza aims to create a sustainable wood supply while significantly reducing costs compared to traditional plantations. This approach not only addresses the growing demand for wood and wood products but also empowers small-holder farmers, enabling them to contribute to solving the wood supply crisis in the region.

Regen Organics is dedicated to transforming agriculture, cities, and communities through innovative circular economy methods. The company specializes in managing residual organics in a climate-resilient agricultural sector, focusing on the manufacture and delivery of regenerative fertilizers, feeds, and fuels. By developing green technologies, Regen Organics aims to promote nurturing soils and thriving ecosystems, facilitating a sustainable future for the planet. With a commitment to environmental stewardship and a strong foundation of industry knowledge, the company seeks to drive meaningful change in agricultural practices and community development.

SolarNow is a company focused on providing solar energy and financing solutions in East Africa, with its headquarters in Nijmegen, Netherlands, and branch locations in Uganda and Kenya. Founded in 2011 by Willem Nolens, SolarNow manufactures high-quality solar home systems designed to meet the energy needs of both rural and urban households, as well as entrepreneurs and institutions. The company addresses the unmet demand for solar power services by offering a range of products, including solar home systems and electrical appliances. Additionally, SolarNow provides affordable and flexible credit options, enabling customers to access clean, reliable, and affordable energy solutions for households, small businesses, farming, and corporate needs.

Bridge International Academies, founded in 2007 and based in Nairobi, Kenya, operates primary schools focused on providing education to underprivileged children. The organization offers scholastic services that adhere to national curricula and emphasizes comprehensive teacher training and development programs. Utilizing advanced wireless technology, Bridge International Academies aims to deliver quality education free of charge, enabling children from disadvantaged backgrounds to access the learning they need for a better future.

NewGlobe is a company that focuses on transforming public education systems by leveraging technology and software solutions. It partners with national and state governments to create technology-enabled education systems aimed at enhancing learning outcomes. NewGlobe's comprehensive platform offers adaptive instructional content, digital learning tools, and extensive training and coaching for educators. By implementing these solutions, the company seeks to provide every child with access to quality education that fosters their full potential and promotes growth and prosperity. Through its efforts, NewGlobe aims to achieve rapid and significant improvements in educational outcomes on a global scale.

M-Farm Ltd. operates MFarm, a marketplace solution that connects smallholder farmers in Kenya with urban and export markets through a digital platform accessible via SMS and the web. Founded in 2010 and based in Nairobi, the company addresses the challenges faced by the majority of Kenya's farmers, who often lack access to fair market opportunities and face exploitation by middlemen. By negotiating with buyers and ensuring quality through a network of agents, M-Farm encourages farmers to transition from subsistence farming to cash crops, thus enhancing food security. The company provides farmers with up-to-date market prices and access to agricultural training, which improves crop yields and product quality. In turn, buyers benefit from a reliable source of organic produce, transparency in the supply chain, and stable, pre-negotiated prices that protect them from market volatility. M-Farm's innovative approach aims to empower smallholder farmers while meeting the increasing demand for quality agricultural products.

The Paradigm Project is a manufacturing company based in Ethiopia, established in 2008. It specializes in producing and distributing clean energy products such as cookstoves, solar lamps, water tanks, and filters. The company operates through a network of agents in Kenya and Ethiopia, aiming to provide affordable solutions that improve lives while promoting sustainability.

mPharma is a healthcare company focused on enhancing access to affordable medications in emerging markets. Founded in 2013 by Gregory Rockson, Daniel Shoukimas, and James Finucane, mPharma collaborates with drug manufacturers, insurance providers, financial institutions, and governments to streamline the delivery of prescription drugs to consumers. The company offers a pharmaceutical data analytics platform that assists pharmacies in managing their inventory, prescribing medications, and reporting adverse drug reactions. By ensuring that high-quality chronic disease medications are consistently available at sustainable prices, mPharma aims to improve health outcomes for patients, doctors, and pharmacists alike.