A startup focused on sustainable agricultural solutions, which has received funding from Novastar.
Will H1 2026 cross the $1B mark? Funding hits $887M despite deal slump
Startup funding in Africa for January-April 2026 reached $887 million, up from $803 million in the same period in 2025. The number of deals dropped from 173 in 2025 to only 84 in 2026, indicating a shift towards larger funding rounds.
In Q1 2026, Africa’s Startups Raised More Money Than Ever — But Fewer Companies Are Getting Any
African tech startups raised between $597 million and $711 million in Q1 2026, a significant increase from 2025. The number of funded startups fell 27% compared to Q1 2025, indicating a concentration of capital in fewer companies.
Africa’s Startups Crossed $705 Million in Q1 2026 — and Debt Is Now Driving the Story
59 deals were recorded across 14 African countries, with total funding of approximately $705 million. Debt financing rose significantly, with 15 pure debt rounds and 4 hybrid rounds, totaling over $490 million.
Novastar Ventures closes $147 million fund for African startups
Novastar Ventures closed its third fund, raising $147 million for the Africa People and Planet Fund III. The new fund is a 40% increase from the previous fund, which closed at $108 million in May 2020.
Novastar Ventures closes $147 million third fund to drive pan-African ambitions
Novastar Ventures closed its third fund, NVIII, securing $147 million for climate-focused startups. The fund received commitments from Japanese investors including SBI Holdings and SMBC.
