SA-based WhereIsMyTransport raises $7.5m

South Africa and UK-based mass public transport and data analytics firm WhereIsMyTransport, has raised $7.5m from Google, Toyota Tsusho Corporation, Liil Ventures, Nedbank and Global Innovation Fund and Goodwell Investments.

The lead investor in its Series A round was Liil Ventures.

The firm will use the funds to scale its data-collection operation, develop new technology that translates data into useful information for communities in low and middle income cities.

Mr. Masato Yamanami, Automotive Division’s CEO of Toyota Tsusho Corporation, said, “We are pleased to have the opportunity to invest in WhereIsMyTransport’s Series A funding.”

He added, “Our division’s global network, that covers 146 countries, is primarily focused on new emerging countries where people rely on informal public transport. Through strategic collaboration with WhereIsMyTransport, we will develop better and more efficient mobility services that help to resolve social challenges and contribute to the overall economic development of nations, primarily emerging nations.”

WhereIsMyTransport was founded in 2015, and has since collected more mobility data in emerging markets than any other firm, from more than 750,000 km of routes in 39 cities.

The company’s integrated mobility hub translates formal and informal public transport data into information for citizens, governments, and third parties. 

WhereIsMyTransport is mapping the emerging world’s public transport networks.

It aims to become the de facto source of information for governments and service providers towards the goal of improving transport services for hundreds of millions of people globally. 

WhereIsMyTransport first set up in Africa, then expanded into India, Southeast Asia, and Latin America in 2018.

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“Nedbank CIB is at the forefront of investing in disruptive technologies that are able to make a meaningful difference to people’s lives – including smart city initiatives that leverages Nedbank’s strategy of financing our infrastructure, transport and logistics clients,” said Janade Du Plessis, Head of Alternative Investments and Venture Capital at Nedbank.

He added, “Our investment will support the company’s expansion into key African regions, and we will use our network and our influence on the continent to unlock new corporate partnerships.”