XA Network, an investment network that fosters innovation in Southeast Asia and Africa, has launched XA Africa. XA Network was originally founded by a group of former Google executives in Southeast Asia. This same model has been applied in the launch of XA Africa.
The three founders are Nitin Gajria, who is a former MD of Google Sub-Saharan Africa. Jason Scott, a venture capitalist and an architect of the Black Founders Fund at Google, is the second founder. Lastly, current Marketing Director at YouTube and a South African native, Marek Dawidowicz completes the trio.
With their knowledge of the continent, the three cofounders plan to connect African tech founders with global investors and industry experts to provide capital, mentorship, and support for scaling their ventures.
“We see the foray of XA Network into Africa as a natural progression, allowing us to connect amazing founders to experienced and expert operators from the tech industry”, says Nitin Gajria, Co-Founder of XA Africa.
XA Africa Portfolio
XA Africa has already made investments across different industries such as mobility, agriculture, health, and construction in the continent. The network has investment in BuuPass, a Kenyan startup, South African startup Kaya, Nigerian company Crop2Cash, and Ghanian startup Talamus Health.
“We are excited to have XA network on board because of their strong network of experts who are open to listening and helping. They have introduced us to advisors from Expedia and truly understand the dynamics of emerging markets, making them a valuable investor,” said Sonia Kabra and Wyclife Omondi the Founders of BuuPass.
The larger XA Network comprises senior leaders from prominent global and regional technology companies and notable company founders. This backing gives portfolio companies a support network of experienced industry operators.
“We also see an opportunity to build a stronger bridge between ecosystems in Africa and Southeast Asia along the way,” Mr. Gajria added.
