The accelerator was born of the desire of Norwegian investment company Katapult to stimulate innovation in agritech and foodtech in Africa. Through its acceleration programs, it helps startups grow.  

Launched in 2020 by Norwegian investment company Katapult, Katapult Africa invests in the next generation of agritech and climate tech startups in Africa. 

Apart from Katapult, the accelerator is supported by major institutions, including the Tony Blair Institute (TBI) for Global Change, Norrsken, and Smart Africa.

 With offices in Mauritius and Rwanda, every year, Katapult Africa launches acceleration programs and investment vehicles targeting foodtech and agritech startups. 

Currently, it is led by Philip Gasaatura, an experienced investor and entrepreneur. It recruits the best startups and gives them access to its global network of impact investors, mentors, experts, partner companies, and alumni.  

To take part in its programs, startups need to specialize in agricultural or food technology, have a corporate structure, and be active for at least two years with a minimum of $10,000 in annual revenue. Katapult Africa invests between $150,000 and $400,000 in the selected companies.

"Our goal is to find, invest in, and help scale some of the most exciting tech companies with the most impact potential on Africa’s food and agri value chains, across Africa," says Philip Gasaatura.

Katapult Africa has already invested in several companies including Crop2Cash, which enables small farmers in rural Nigeria to receive digital payments and develop their financial identity. Over the next four to five years, the accelerator "plans to invest in 60 to 80 companies", according to Philip Gasaatura.

Melchior Koba