Partech launches funding program for European scale-ups

Anyone who wants to enter African markets as a scale-up can apply to the investor's program. The deadline for applications is in February.

French investor Partech is launching an accelerator program for European scale-ups that want to enter African markets. Companies can apply from February 7 and the eight-month program will start in April. They will be given access to experts from the investor's network, keynotes on operating models and special features of African markets and access to key players on the continent. The program is also open to German start-ups.

"You may have great technology and fantastic credentials in Europe, but Africa requires some very practical adjustments in the way you recruit, operate, sell and partner," says Vincent Previ, who manages the program called Chapter54. All scale-ups from Europe can apply, regardless of industry and operating model, but it should be possible to adapt the concept locally.

The program is financed by Partech Shaker, the company's innovation arm. In addition, the German development bank KfW is providing support on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

Partech has already invested in nine African countries, so the investor also has its own experience of the markets. "Due to its unique positioning in the technology ecosystems of Europe and Africa, Partech Shaker is an excellent partner for European scale-ups looking to invest in Africa," comments Jan Martin Witte from KfW.