Grassroots Business Fund
Impact investorNairobi · Seed–Growth · 35 people tracked
Investment thesis
The firm targets 'missing-middle' SMEs that are too large for microfinance and too early for commercial banks, and that often fail from lack of operational infrastructure rather than lack of funding. Its model combines structured, patient capital with embedded technical assistance across three connected windows: programs supporting early-stage enterprises, an investment window providing patient mezzanine capital to growth-stage enterprises, and cross-cutting technical assistance strengthening finance, operations, and governance. The goal is not to hold companies indefinitely but to make them fundable by commercial banks and other investors, with enterprises graduating from programs into the investment portfolio. Focus is on East Africa, with broader work across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Source: firm website, verified Aug 3, 2026.
Team · 35 people
from the firm's website & curated
Frequently asked questions
- What stage does Grassroots Business Fund invest at?
- Grassroots Business Fund invests at the Seed, Series A, Growth stages.
- What is Grassroots Business Fund's typical check size?
- Grassroots Business Fund typically writes checks of $100K – $3M.
- What sectors does Grassroots Business Fund focus on?
- Grassroots Business Fund focuses on Impact & Social Good, Sector Agnostic.
- Where is Grassroots Business Fund located?
- Grassroots Business Fund is headquartered in Nairobi, KE.
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