Funding

Accelerating Africa’s deep-tech and hardware startups with hands-on support, funding, and industry partnerships to drive innovation and market success.

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.

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:

savant-dotHardware & Deep Tech Innovation

Science and engineering-driven solutions.

savant-dotHigh-Growth Potential

Scalable business models with global market potential.

savant-dotStrong Technical Teams

Founders who understand both their technology and its commercialisation pathway.

savant-dotClear Market Demand

Validated problem-solution fit with real customer interest.

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

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

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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Submit your pitch deck & company details.

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Determines whether the investee company aligns with the Fund’s objectives & criteria.

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Determines whether the investee company aligns with the Fund’s objectives and criteria.

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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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Examination of a company’s financial, legal, operational, & growth strategy, conducted to assess its overall viability, risks, & potential.

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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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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 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.