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Leading African venture capital  fund managers, including First Circle Capital, SpeedInvest, and Knife Capital, were awarded for their exceptional contributions to supporting startups and entrepreneurs across Africa. These accolades were presented during the Africa Venture Finance Programme, a week-long course at Oxford University’s Saïd Business School.

Now in its third year, the program is designed to support VC fund managers investing in early- and growth-stage technology companies in Africa. Hosted by Boost Africa and AfricaGrow, it brought together 41 top fund managers from 31 African VC funds.

First Circle Capital, an all-female team that invests in early-stage fintech founders, was awarded the “Most Promising Fund Manager” award. SpeedInvest earned the “Best Deal” award for its investment in Nigeria’s Moove, a fast-growing company offering vehicle financing and supply chain solutions. Keet van Zyl, founding partner of South Africa’s Knife Capital, received the “Lifetime Achievement Award” for his leadership and contributions to the African venture ecosystem.

“The opportunity to exchange confidential insights, discuss inherent challenges, and ultimately build deeper human bonds is essential for strengthening our collective ability to build our VC ecosystem together. No other conference or event has provided anywhere near as much value as this one.” – Nivesh Pather, Principal at Norrsken22.

“It is important for me to always be learning. The trends in our part of the world are equal parts cyclical and rapidly evolving. We heard so many fresh perspectives and voices coupled with experience. I left Oxford with a renewed commitment to focus on the how.” –  Ory Okolloh, Partner at Verod-Kepple Africa Ventures.

“This year’s Africa Venture Finance Programme proved once again the enormous potential of venture capital in Africa. A whole new generation of investors is taking the long view on building an entire new ecosystem. At Oxford Saïd Business School we are proud to be part of supporting this journey which will transform African economies, one startup at a time!” – Thomas Hellmann, Professor of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Saïd School of Business, Oxford University

The winners were chosen by a panel of limited partners from a shortlist nominated by their peers.

The program featured investors from prominent funds such as Partech, AfricInvest, TLcom Capital, and Norssken22, who came together to discuss strategies for addressing Africa’s unique challenges. With over half of the participants being women, the event highlighted the growing gender inclusivity in venture capital leadership across the continent.

“We are proud of Boost Africa’s role in fostering a dynamic and resilient VC ecosystem in Africa, helping entrepreneurs transform their ideas into successful businesses,” said Ambroise Fayolle, vice president of the European Investment Bank (EIB). “The EIB is committed to financing new technologies and ideas that address global challenges.”