Unlocking Private Capital for Africa’s Growth at CSAE Conference 2025

The CSAE Conference 2025 kicked off on 23rd March with an opening panel at Oxford’s Riverside Lecture Theatre, featuring our Fund Manager, Fadilah Tchoumba. Speaking on behalf of Catalytic Africa, she shared key insights on how blended finance is empowering African startups and driving inclusive economic growth.

The CSAE Conference, hosted by the University of Oxford, is a leading platform for development economists and policymakers to share data-driven insights and practical strategies for Africa’s transformation.

Fadilah’s session highlighted:

  1. Innovative financing models and the power of matching funds
  2. Startup investment trends and funding gaps
  3. Policy levers for inclusive innovation and entrepreneurship

At Catalytic Africa, our work is focused on de-risking early-stage investments through smart matching funding, amplifying the impact of angel capital, and supporting locally-led innovation. Fadilah’s presence at CSAE reinforced the critical role of ecosystem collaboration in scaling sustainable ventures across the continent.

Catch the session highlights here!