Southern Africa's First Climate Tech Fund Backs 10 Startups

Southern Africa now has its first dedicated climate tech venture fund, and the early results show green innovation can create real jobs and attract serious investment.

Holocene Ventures just closed its inaugural fund after 18 months of backing climate-focused startups across the region. The firm invested in 10 companies tackling everything from electric transportation to waste reduction, providing not just money but hands-on support to help founders build sustainable businesses.

The numbers tell a promising story. These 10 portfolio companies have created more than 500 jobs in communities across Southern Africa. For every dollar Holocene invested, the startups attracted eight more dollars from other investors. That vote of confidence matters in a region where climate companies often struggle to prove they can scale.

The portfolio spans practical solutions people can see and use today. FARO helps businesses turn unused inventory into useful products instead of waste. ScootHero is putting 500 electric motorbikes and 50 battery-swapping stations on South African roads. Yongeza is building electric mobility infrastructure in Uganda, making clean transportation accessible where it's needed most.

What sets Holocene apart is the wraparound support. Each company gets at least 12 months of embedded help from experienced operators who assist with everything from sales strategy to grant applications. Climate businesses often need more than seed money because they're building physical infrastructure, not just apps.

Founder Josh Romisher says the fund is now entering its value-creation phase, focused on helping these companies reach their next milestones and eventual exits.

The Ripple Effect

This fund represents a shift in how Africa approaches climate challenges. Instead of waiting for international aid or grand policy changes, local investors are backing homegrown solutions to regional problems. When a Ugandan e-mobility company or a South African circular economy startup succeeds, they create templates other entrepreneurs can follow.

The 500-plus jobs matter beyond the paychecks. These positions train workers in green technologies and sustainable business practices, building expertise that will spread as employees eventually start their own ventures or join other climate companies.

Every battery-swapping station and every ton of waste diverted from landfills demonstrates that climate solutions can work in African markets. That proof attracts more investment, inspires more founders, and accelerates the timeline for regional climate action.

The real test comes next, as these companies move from promising pilots to full commercial operations that can sustain themselves and grow.