This week, we had the pleasure of speaking with Magdi Amin and Maya Zein of African Renaissance Ventures, a pioneering venture fund dedicated to unlocking Africa’s next wave of high-growth startups. With a sharp focus on underinvested yet fast-growing, reforming regions, Magdi is tapping into the immense potential of East Africa- Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, and Rwanda, where economic growth is soaring, yet venture capital remains scarce.

Draper Cygnus, initially a small Argentinian concept fund, has grown into a key deep tech investor with successes like Auth0 and Satellogic. Partnering with Tim Draper eight years ago expanded their reach and focus on Latino founders in frontier tech sectors such as AI, biotech, aerospace, and blockchain. The firm invests early, with Fund III targeting $30–$50M, offering $1M first checks and reserving 30% for follow-ons. With a concentrated portfolio of 20–30 companies, Draper Cygnus plans a first close by March, offering special terms for early participants and highlighting a unique opportunity in underserved markets.