We back category-defining founders in reforming, fast-growing markets

Combining capital with hands-on value creation

01About us

ARV invests in pre-seed and seed East African tech companies with unique datasets and core competencies in digital and financial infrastructure.

We closely partner with our portfolio to enable them to make the best strategic and technical decisions — including technology, talent, governance, cross-border market entry, and pricing.

We believe that solving strategic problems at early stages helps our portfolio companies gain traction, achieve better unit economics, develop a competitive edge and reach Series A faster.

02Why we focus on East Africa

We know Africa's fastest-growing region, and engage in building the venture ecosystem

Africa's Growth Engine

IMF projects Africa will outpace all global regions from 2026–2029. East Africa leads that charge.

Local Expertise Matters

Africa is complex. We invest where we have deep networks and on-ground presence. ARV is the only fund with teams in both Addis and Dar es Salaam. Policymakers designing the growing ecosystem regularly seek our advice on sector regulation and financial sector reform.

GDP Growth 2025–2026 by region

03Why we win

Driving performance with deep operational engagement

I

Technology &
Team

  • Technical reviews and development roadmaps
  • Hands-on support to engineering teams
  • Support senior executive selection
II

Strategy &
Governance

  • Placed senior executives on boards
  • Led re-domiciling to Delaware
  • Clean up cap tables, revesting agreements
III

Fundraising &
Deal Structuring

  • Set up SPVs for co-investors
  • Led fundraising and sourced millions
  • Series A roadmaps and milestones
IV

Market Expansion &
Growth

  • Guided regional growth plans
  • Advice on pricing, UVP and GTM
  • Leverage our local networks

04Impact that scales

Solving the biggest problems means that impact and returns are aligned

Climate

  • 60% of global solar potential, but only 0.2% of cleantech investment
UN SDG 7 — Affordable and Clean Energy UN SDG 6 — Clean Water and Sanitation UN SDG 13 — Climate Action

Human Capital

  • Growing middle class demanding better healthcare and education
UN SDG 8 — Decent Work and Economic Growth UN SDG 3 — Good Health and Well-being UN SDG 4 — Quality Education

Economic Inclusion

  • Closing gaps in productivity and financial access
UN SDG 1 — No Poverty UN SDG 2 — Zero Hunger UN SDG 10 — Reduced Inequalities