Botswana launches venture fund to finance tech startups across Southern Africa

Initiative combines venture capital operators, family office capital and local innovation infrastructure to support companies from pre-seed to growth stage

The Botswana Tech Fund (BTF) has been introduced as a venture capital initiative targeting US$64 million in commitments to finance technology startups operating across Southern Africa. The fund is designed to support companies from early formation through expansion, starting with an initial deployment of US$6.4 million.

The structure brings together venture capital operators and family office investors. Launch Africa Ventures will act as investment adviser during the first phase, while Pula Investments participates as anchor investor. The initial capital allocation includes US$1.3 million focused on pre-seed stage companies.

The fund is positioned to invest in technology-enabled businesses across countries within the Southern African Development Community, reflecting a broader regional scope beyond Botswana. Its approach combines staged capital deployment with access to operational support and local market integration.

To support sourcing and development of portfolio companies, BTF is working with the Botswana Innovation Hub. The partnership provides startups with access to infrastructure, connections to local networks and integration into the country’s innovation ecosystem.

Over time, the initiative aims to reach its full US$64 million target, expanding its capacity to fund companies at different stages and increasing the availability of venture capital for startups operating in the region.