Funding
Accelerating Africa’s deep-tech and hardware startups with hands-on support, funding, and industry partnerships to drive innovation and market success.
- OUR INVESTMENT THESIS
At Savant, we fund deep-tech and hardware startups solving real-world problems. We believe Africa’s engineers, scientists, and innovators are building technologies that will shape the future. Our role is to provide not just capital, but also the expertise, commercialisation support, and networks needed to scale these companies into investable, high-growth ventures.
- INVEST
Who We Invest In
We back ambitious founders developing protectable, scalable, and high-impact technologies. If your startup fits these criteria, we want to hear from you:
Hardware & Deep Tech Innovation
Hardware & Deep Tech InnovationScience and engineering-driven solutions.
High-Growth Potential
Scalable business models with global market potential.
Strong Technical Teams
Founders who understand both their technology and its commercialisation pathway.
Clear Market Demand
Validated problem-solution fit with real customer interest.
- INVESTMENT CRITERIA
We Invest In
Stage
Pre-seed to Series A
Investment Size
R0.5M– R1.5M Pre-Seed; R 2.5M – R 5M Seed; R15M – R30M Series A.
Mandate
Deep tech & Hardware (Medtech, Energy, Green Economy, E-mobility, etc.)
Region
Africa
- SAVANT
More Than Just Capital
Funding is just the beginning. At Savant, we act as long-term partners to help
startups navigate the toughest parts of their journey. Our portfolio companies
benefit from:
Commercialisation Strategy
Moving from prototype to market-ready product
Investment Readiness
Structuring for scale and attracting follow-on funding
Industry Networks & Co-Investment
Connecting with investors, customers, and global partners
- APPLY
How to Apply
Savant Foundry partners with entrepreneurs, researchers, and investors to commercialize deep-tech innovations, driving startup growth and lasting economic impact.
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Application
Submit your pitch deck & company details.
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Screening
Determines whether the investee company aligns with the Fund’s objectives & criteria.
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Light DD
Determines whether the investee company aligns with the Fund’s objectives and criteria.
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IC 1
Present & socialise the deal to determine if there are any concerns that the investment team needs to address, prior to going into full due diligence.
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Full DD
Examination of a company’s financial, legal, operational, & growth strategy, conducted to assess its overall viability, risks, & potential.
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Team Sheet
The proposed investment terms & conditions, including the investment amount, valuation, equity stake, rights and preferences, governance structure, etc. providing a framework for further negotiation & discussion with the IC.
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IC 2
The deal terms are presented. It is also an opportunity for the founders to pitch their business to the IC.
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Investment & Support
Investment is disbursed. The investee now enters the portfolio and receives targeted post-investment support. This includes partnership enablement, operational guidance, strategic advisory, and support for follow-on funding and exit planning.