JAID set to bring funding closer to African startups
The Japan-Africa Investment Initiative (JAII) is a cohort-oriented investment accelerator aimed at linking promising Japanese venture capital (VC) firms to African startups.
To enhance the chances of securing investment, JAII will also provide dedicated assistance to both the startups and the VCs during the collaboration.
Additional information regarding the program, eligibility criteria, schedule, and advantages is outlined below.
Investment pitch and enhancement
Connection to investors
Orientation to the Japanese venture landscape
Follow-up interactions
Pitch enhancement
Orientation to the Japanese venture landscape
Demonstration day
Investor connection
Follow-up interactions, etc.
The Eligibility Requirements: To qualify for selection, applicants must satisfy the following requirements-
Be African-based B2B, B2C & B2B2C startups
Possess Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
Have a valuation of at least $5 million
Post MVP stage
Post Traction (minimum of $10k MRR) of the startup
$500k investment and greater
Program Advantages: Successful candidates can anticipate enjoying the following perks-
Obtain direct investment
Direct funding from a partnering venture capital firm Japan Strategic Capital (JSC)
Dedicated support
The top-performing startups will be showcased to more than 15 Japanese VCs on the curated list. Additionally, support for investor engagement will include meeting coordination, pitch deck translation, and interpreter services for investor meetings.
Throughout the financing phase, selected startups will benefit from comprehensive legal, cultural, and administrative assistance on how to secure and finalize Japanese investment. Group seminars and individualized one-on-one mentorship will also be available.
December 19th: Applications will close on December 19, after which qualified startups will be chosen. Further timeline specifics are detailed below-
