Supporting Innovative Businesses in East Africa

Only 2% of the sub-Saharan Africa society is insured against sickness and accidents. Most individuals do not have insurance because of a dearth of affordable options, leaving many people in the region without a safety net. Turaco is a micro-insurance company changing healthcare financing in emerging markets. The company offers simple, quality health, life, Read more

and accident insurance for urban and rural populations living on less than US$ 5 a day. Turaco collaborates with local firms and mobile lenders to offer accessible and affordable healthcare to underserved communities. Read less

Note: The portfolio companies showcased on this page are illustrative examples of the portfolio holdings for the Zephyr Acorn Strategy.

Affordable private schools (APS) in Africa have a significant need for financing but struggle to raise funds from microfinance institutions and banks as these institutions lack the expertise to lend to APS. Ed Partners has developed underwriting skills to provide loans to APS. These schools use the proceeds to expand their infrastructure, improve learning Read more outcomes, provide school transport, improve sanitation facilities and finance working capital needs. Read less

Note: The portfolio companies showcased on this page are illustrative examples of the portfolio holdings for the Zephyr Acorn Strategy.

Many low-wage workers in Africa struggle to manage their finances, often spending their earnings quickly and taking small but frequent loans which become costly in the long run. Power Financial Wellness offers comprehensive financial services in Africa to help workers and companies with financial management. The company’s services include cash flow Read more management, bill payment scheduling, budgeting tools, automated savings, credit assessment, and affordable insurance with extended coverage options. Power's mobile app provides banking services, personal loans, insurance, and access to multiple investment tools. Read less

Note: The portfolio companies showcased on this page are illustrative examples of the portfolio holdings for the Zephyr Acorn Strategy.

Only a small fraction of people in Africa have health insurance mainly due to high premium costs. Many seek medical help only in acute illnesses, potentially putting themselves at risk of financial hardship because of prohibitive healthcare expenses. Antara Health strives to provide affordable, high-quality healthcare plans. Antara’s customers benefit from Read more comprehensive health and financial protection, and personalized care coordination. Members can also access care providers across Kenya through the company's partnership with hospital groups with the assurance of having a reliable partner in their and their loved ones' healthcare journey. Read less

Note: The portfolio companies showcased on this page are illustrative examples of the portfolio holdings for the Zephyr Acorn Strategy.

Many African companies struggle to grow due to limited access to global markets. African banks face difficulties working with banks in more developed countries, facing delays, lost transfers, and limited transaction transparency. Heavy reliance on the US dollar results in frequent delays for making international payments. In addition, connectivity within Read more banking networks and mobile payment channels are weak across many African markets. Aza Finance, formerly BitPesa, is a digital currency payments and trading company that helps African businesses with international money transfer services. Money transfers through AZA's platform are faster, cheaper, and more secure than traditional options. Read less

Note: The portfolio companies featured on this page are illustrative examples of Zephyr Acorn’s target sectors of investment, focusing on technology-enabled solutions.

Note: The portfolio companies showcased on this page are illustrative examples of the portfolio holdings for the Zephyr Acorn Strategy.

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