Viridian recently ran a 3-day workshop in Tshwane and Joburg, where we had the opportunity to meet the 10 African Digital Social Innovations (DSIs) we will be working with over the next 9 months on the ThinkLikeAnInvestor programme.
Viridian‘s Alexandra Fraser, Rim Abid, and Claire Jowell formally introduced the businesses to the programme, and began working through our intensive investment-readiness curriculum with them. We explored the African funding landscape, different types of funding and how to determine which is right for them, as well as how to shape their ask and growth plan. We also visited Alexandra township to learn more about the history and community as well as the opportunities and trends in South African townships.
It was an inspiring couple of days, and we’re really looking forward to walking a journey will all the businesses over the course of the year – supporting them to grow their business, develop valuable partnerships, and access the right type of funding.
About ThinkLikeAnInvestor
This programme is managed by the HAUS kehittämiskeskus Oy / HAUS Finnish Institute of Public Management Ltd and Estonian Centre for International Development (ESTDEV) under the umbrella of the Data Governance in Africa Initiative supported by the African Union, European Union, Belgium, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany. Viridian will be managing the training and technical assistance on behalf of the partners.
Through tailored training, expert mentorship, and strategic networking with both European and African investors, hashtagThinkLikeAnInvestor equips African digital impact businesses with the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to scale their ventures. The programme aims to encourage the use of data across borders, drive social impact, and foster sustainable economic growth through partnerships between African and European stakeholders.