Dream VC

📍Understanding The Importance of Platform Roles #VC has come a long way from simply writing checks. Today, some of the most impactful VC firms are those that go beyond capital, offering comprehensive support to their portfolio companies. At the heart of this evolution are platform roles – a critical function in present-day VC. Platform roles in VC firms are dedicated positions focused on providing non-financial support to portfolio companies. These professionals work to accelerate startup growth, enhance operational efficiency, and maximize the value of the VC's network and resources. 💭 Some functions of the Platform Teams: 1. Talent Acquisition and Development:   - Building talent networks and databases   - Assisting with executive searches 2. Go-to-Market Strategy:   - Facilitating introductions to potential customers and partners   - Providing market research and competitive intelligence 3. Operational Excellence:   - Sharing best practices across the portfolio   - Advising on tech stack and infrastructure decisions 4. Founder Support and Networking:   - Organizing peer groups and founder retreats   - Facilitating knowledge sharing among portfolio companies & more. ❓ How Platform Strategies Help Funds Stand Out: 1. Differentiation in a Crowded Market: 📍 Unique platform offerings can set a VC firm apart from competitors, attracting top-tier startups. Specialized support in key areas (e.g., AI, blockchain, sustainability) can establish a fund as a thought leader in specific sectors. 2. Enhanced Deal Flow: 📍 A strong platform reputation can lead to warm introductions and referrals from founders and other ecosystem players. Successful portfolio companies become advocates, improving the fund's visibility to promising startups. 3. Improved Investment Outcomes: 📍Comprehensive support can lead to better performance of portfolio companies, potentially increasing returns. 4. Stronger Founder Relationships: 📍Regular, value-added interactions build trust and loyalty with portfolio company founders. Can lead to opportunities for follow-on investments or involvement in future ventures. 📈 Challenges and Considerations: 1. Measuring ROI: Quantifying the impact of platform initiatives can be challenging. 2. Scalability: Balancing personalized support with the need to assist multiple portfolio companies. 3. Talent Acquisition: Finding professionals with the right mix of operational experience and strategic vision. ⏳ The Future of Platform Roles: As the VC landscape becomes increasingly competitive, we can expect to see: 1. Greater specialization within platform teams 2. Increased use of data and AI to personalize and scale support 3. More collaboration between platform teams across different VC firms For founders, understanding and leveraging a VC's platform capabilities can be a game-changer. For VCs, investing in a strong platform team is a tool to stay competitive in today's market. #VentureCapital #africa #investors

Ever seen a Zoom chat outshine a meme thread? Our fellows have it down to a science. 🧪 💬  From witty comments to insightful observations, our fellows keep the conversation going. When did you last see a chat this buzzing voluntarily? #TGIF! 🎉 Because who says learning can't be a blast? #dreamvc #venturecapital #fellowship #africa

"Morocco is a land of numerous treasures. From its mesmerizing blue city of Chefchaouen to its snow-capped Atlas Mountains, the country’s beauty is a muse for creatives. Morocco’s marvel as an ideal investment destination, however, goes beyond its beguiling beauty to its strategic position as a gateway to Africa." - Forbes Africa 📍 Highlights: VC Activity: Morocco reached >$93 million (+252% YoY) in total funding, making it part of the top five ecosystems in Africa, for the first time- both in total funding and deals count (2023). Additionally, multiple Moroccan corporates are exploring corporate venture capital (CVC) including Akwa Group, BMCE, OCP Group and others. 💪🏽 Dominant Sectors: While fintech and e-commerce continue to drive innovation, Morocco's venture scene is witnessing a shift towards diverse sectors, including agritech and renewable energy. This diversification underscores the country's evolving entrepreneurial landscape. 📊 Stage Focus: In 2023, early-stage investments also played a role in Morocco's funding landscape, reflecting a concerted effort to nurture young startups. Seed funding rounds typically ranged from $0.97 million to $1.16 million (1.12 times higher than in 2022), highlighting investors' confidence in Morocco's entrepreneurial talent pool. 🔢 Moroccan VC in Numbers: With increased foreign interest, a robust network of 15+ Active and Emerging VC firms domestically, and a growing number of local HNIs investing as angel investors, Morocco provides a fertile ground for startup growth. At #GITEX Africa 2024, Catalyst Fund's Managing Partner, Maelis Carraro, highlighted the stark reality that in 2023, a mere 2% of all venture capital funding was allocated to women-owned companies. She emphasized the untapped potential, stating that investing at least 40% in women-led startups could boost GDP by 5% to 6%. - Morocco World News 📏 Strategic Importance: “Morocco is the bridge between Europe and Africa. We have political stability, abundant resources, and a very young and highly educated population." - Adil Touyeb for Forbes Africa. 💬 Future Outlook: Backed by initiatives like the Maroc Numeric Fund and support from sovereign funds, Morocco's VC landscape is poised for growth. These efforts aim to further bolster the ecosystem, supporting startups. 📈 Entrepreneurial Growth: The Moroccan Startup Act exemplifies the country's commitment to fostering entrepreneurship. By providing a conducive regulatory framework and financial incentives, Morocco is nurturing a new generation of innovators poised to shape the future of various industries. 📣 Shoutout to active investors like 212 Founders, First Circle Capital, Afri Mobility, Maroc Numeric Fund, Outlierz Ventures, Kalys Ventures, Al Mada Ventures, UM6P Ventures, Plug & Play Ventures, and more! (Sources: Partech, Mubawab, AVCA, World Bank, Wamda, Forbes, Startup Genome, Forbes Africa, Morocco World News)

❓ During our program interview process, we often get asked, "How do I connect with the community? How do we ensure that we are able to work remotely with people? What touchpoints does the program have?" We always share that our program has multiple opportunities designed for the fellows to learn more about each other—one such opportunity is the Fellow Skill Share (FSS) Sessions. At Dream VC, we believe in the power of community and continuous learning. That's why we've instituted our exciting Fellow Skill Share (FSS) Sessions, where our fellows come together to share unique skills and passions with each other. From understanding the intricate flavours of beers 🍻 to the adrenaline rush of skydiving 🪂, from mastering new language skills 🌐 to the discipline of marching band 🥁, and even the art of pottery 🎨, our FSS sessions cover a wide range of fun and engaging topics. These sessions are more than just a chance to learn something new—they're an incredible opportunity for our cohort to connect, bond, and inspire one another. And if #venturecapital is something you are curious about or are confident that you wish to build a career in, our 2025 interest forms are open on our website📍 #dreamvc #africa

Another day at Dream VC.... Mark Kleyner recently wrapped up an incredible few days at SuperReturn Emerging Markets in #Amsterdam, and we're thrilled to share some of the #BTS with you! 🚀 It all kicked off at the stunning Hotel Okura, where Mark joined a diverse mix of VCs, PEs, and Fund LPs to dive deep into market conditions. There was a lot of buzz around the challenges of down rounds (rounds raised at a lower valuation than prior funding), but also optimism about the resilience of vibrant markets like #Africa and #India. 🌟 Mark had the pleasure of connecting with fellow Africa-focused investors like the DFC (Development Financing Corporation), VestedWorld, and E4EAfrica , who shared practical insights and feedback from their experiences on the continent. 🇨🇳 Discussions did not skip the turbulence in #China's venture and PE markets, with insights from experts like Ola Brown, MFR and Ian Goh shedding light on the evolving dynamics between China and Africa. 🎤 Onstage, Mark teamed up with William Bao Bean for an engaging talk on deal sourcing strategies and the power of partnerships in any market. It was inspiring to see how these insights resonated with new institutional investors looking to venture into the world of emerging markets. 🔥 Amidst back-to-back meetups and late-night discussions, Mark soaked in every moment, fueling his passion to drive Dream VC's mission forward. From early morning starts to late-night networking, the energy was palpable throughout the three-day summit. 🥘 No conference is complete without a catch-up dinner with old friends, and new! Feat. the amazing Yaw Peprah CA(SA), Janade Du Plessis & Jill Curr 🌏 Now, back in the UK, Mark returns to the Dream VC HQ training and professionalizing many more emerging market focused investors! #VentureCapital

🔍 Insights on Francophone Africa's Startup Ecosystem – Industry Sound Bites. "We had an enriching discussion at a Dream VC panel on the challenges and opportunities facing prospective start-ups in #Francophone #Africa. Here are some key takeaways.." 📩 Give it a read and let us know what other insights you can think of. #venturecapital #dreamvc

This week, Dream VC was at the amazing #Africa Center in #NYC! Meeting the community is always a rewarding experience. Our hearts are full ❤️ Feat. Eunice Kyereme Fanta Traore Ijeoma Ejimadu Daba Oruwariye Sharon Ordor (MPA, ACA) Phillip Madanire Emmanuel Gebremeskel Katherine Kamel #dreamvc #venturecapital

Week 2 at Dream VC has been nothing short of insightful 🚀 One key takeaway has been understanding how financial statements go beyond tracking numbers; they help identify great founders in a sea of opportunities. It's more than just the cheque – our young ecosystem needs more support. Curious about the "branches of venture investment" and my journey into the world of VC? Read some of my thoughts here: https://lnkd.in/eRVweAS3 #VentureCapital #DreamVC

This week for our country spotlight, let's look at #Tunisia 🇹🇳 🚀 Key Highlights: 📍Biggest Deal: InstaDeep, a leader in AI decision-making systems, secured $100 million in a Series B funding round in January 2022. "The company started with “USD 2,000, two laptops, and a lot of enthusiasm”. - Karim Beguir (X) 📍Biggest Acquisition: InstaDeep was acquired by BioNTech for $550 million in January 2023, marking Africa’s largest disclosed exit to date. 💪🏽 Dominant Sectors: In Tunisia, retail and services sectors dominate by deal count, diverging from the typical FinTech focus in other African regions. However, #Deeptech leads in terms of the amount raised, driven by significant funding rounds and exits. 📊 Stage Focus: In 2023, the majority of deals in Tunisia were early-stage, consistent with trends since 2019, where most investments ranged between $100K-$1M. 🔢 Tunisian VC in Numbers: - Local Investors: 14+ VCs headquartered in Tunisia. - Gender Lens: 38% female-led funded startup teams 📈 2023 Momentum: Tunisia's VC ecosystem is gaining traction with increasing startup activity and tech company formations. This growth is fuelled by substantial VC investments aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurial development. 🌍 Strategic Location: Located at the heart of the Euro-Mediterranean logistic chain, Tunisia offers easy access to key markets in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, making it an ideal hub for trade, production, and international expansion. Tunisia shares a time zone with many European countries, allowing for seamless collaboration and ease of operation for remote workers. 📚 Entrepreneurship Education: Private and political interest in entrepreneurship is thriving in Tunisia, with courses in entrepreneurship offered at all universities. A vast network of accelerators, incubators, and support organizations encourages entrepreneurship across the region. The Women Call initiative, launched in July 2023, supports women entrepreneurs and strengthens economic empowerment. Additionally, Tunisia will launch a self-entrepreneur registration platform in 2024. 💼 Dedicated Support: The Startup Act has been a major catalyst for the evolution of Tunisian innovation, supporting over $179 million in raised funds since its inception. The Startup Act 2.0, projected to launch in 2024, will provide an even more robust legal framework to support entrepreneurship, addressing financing options, collaboration between startups and the state, and regulatory challenges. 🌍 Future Potential: Despite being in its early stages, the Tunisian VC landscape holds immense potential. With ongoing support and investment, Tunisia is poised to become a leading hub for technological innovation and startup success in North Africa. (Sources: Instadeep, Business Wire, Wamda, Partech, MIT, Startup Genome, GIZ) #venturecapital #africa #dreamvc

Meanwhile, in Cape Town and Kigali 🥂 🚀 We're so excited to share that our alumni & fellows are connecting all over the world! Recently, we had awesome meet-ups in #CapeTown and #Kigali These get-togethers are more than just catching up—they're about sharing ideas, supporting each other, and growing our amazing community. It's truly inspiring to see our members build these meaningful connections, no matter where they are. Here are some fun highlights from these recent meet-ups. #dreamvc #venturecapital #africa