Knife Capital announces fresh investments in South African startups as part of 15-year milestone

The Cape Town-based VC firm is backing fintech Sticitt and optometry disruptor Optique through its second fund, aiming to boost innovation-driven growth across South Africa.

South African venture capital firm Knife Capital is celebrating its 15th anniversary with two new Series A investments into homegrown startups Sticitt and Optique, reinforcing its commitment to fueling scalable innovation in the country.

Operating since 2010, Knife Capital supports high-growth businesses across Africa and beyond, with offices in Cape Town, London, and Jersey. Through its various funds, including the current KNF II, the firm continues to target ventures with strong market traction and global potential.

Sticitt, launched in 2018, provides a digital payment platform designed specifically for South African schools. By centralizing school-related transactions, the startup simplifies money management for institutions and families alike. Already serving over 840 schools and 75,000 users, Sticitt has grown from its early backing in Knife’s Grindstone accelerator to now securing this latest round of funding.

"Knife Capital brings not just funding, but a deep understanding of scale and sustainability," said Sticitt CEO and founder Theo Kitshoff. "With their support, we’re positioned to help schools operate more efficiently while encouraging financial literacy in the next generation."

Also joining the Knife portfolio is Optique, a fast-growing optometry business founded in 2017. Combining an online platform with a growing number of franchise locations, now at 19 across the country, Optique is reimagining eye care to be more accessible and digitally driven.

“Our mission has always been to make vision care simple and affordable,” said founder Leon van Vuuren. “Knife Capital’s investment allows us to accelerate expansion and deliver quality eyecare to more communities.”

Keet van Zyl, co-founder and partner at Knife Capital, highlighted the alignment of values. “Both startups represent exactly what we look for: bold solutions to real-world problems. Whether it's digitizing school finances or innovating in healthcare, they show the grit and innovation that drives lasting impact.”