An investment group that focuses on supporting African entrepreneurs and startups through funding and mentorship.
This Mastercard-backed startup says it will be AfCFTA’s implementation engine
Brydge was founded in late 2023 to address trade challenges faced by SMBs in Africa. The startup has processed ₦4.8 billion ($3.1 million) in transactions and disbursed ₦100 million ($61,000) in trade financing.
Condia Insider: Mastercard Giveth, 54 Collective…?
54 Collective is facing liquidation after allegedly misusing over $42 million from a Mastercard Foundation grant. The group rerouted $4.59 million to its for-profit counterpart Founders Factory Africa without permission.
“Mastercard Foundation’s agreement was not terminated due to a breach,” Bongani Sithole, 54 Collective’s CEO
54 Collective, an early-stage venture studio, shut down in February 2025, laying off over 40 employees. Mastercard Foundation withdrew funding due to concerns over 54 Collective's rebranding and potential conflicts of interest.
African venture firm, 54 Collective, forced into liquidation over misused grant
The South African High Court provisionally liquidated 54 Collective following allegations of serious financial misconduct. The Mastercard Foundation disbursed over $42 million to the firm, which was initially registered as Africa Founders Ventures NPC.
Liquify, a Ghanaian female-led startup, raises $1.5 million seed to close Africa’s trade finance gap
Liquify closed a $1.5 million seed funding round led by Future Africa. The funding round included participation from Launch Africa Ventures, 54 Collective, Digital Africa, and Equitable Ventures.
