Sim Shagaya, a prominent figure in African technology and a relentless advocate for education, has launched a new venture – The Honey Badger Fund (HBF). This fund aims to empower “extraordinary Africans” building businesses that drive positive change across the continent.
Shagaya is no stranger to building impactful ventures. He pioneered Nigeria’s e-commerce landscape with Konga, a company that secured significant funding even in the early stages of the African tech ecosystem. Following his success at Konga, he shifted his focus to education and established uLesson, an edtech startup offering high-quality courses in various subjects. uLesson’s growth trajectory is impressive, having reached the Series B stage with nearly $30 million raised.
The Honey Badger Fund (HBF) goes beyond simply providing financial backing. Shagaya recognises the importance of experience, having learned valuable lessons throughout his own entrepreneurial journey. He emphasises that HBF will not only invest in promising companies but also offer valuable mentorship and guidance to help them navigate the demanding yet rewarding path of business leadership.
Shagaya’s initiative joins a growing movement of successful African entrepreneurs who are now giving back to the ecosystem. He joins the ranks of other prominent figures like Iyinoluwa “E” Aboyeji (Andela, Flutterwave) with Future Africa and Accelerate Africa, and Opeyemi Awoyemi (Jobberman, WhoGoHost) with Fast Forward Ventures. This trend signifies a strong commitment to fostering the next generation of African innovators.
Shagaya’s Passion for Education: A Guiding Force
Sim Shagaya’s dedication to education is evident throughout his career. His commitment to making quality education accessible to everyone regardless of background aligns perfectly with HBF’s mission of empowering Africans who are making a positive impact.
The launch of The Honey Badger Fund is a significant development for African entrepreneurs. With experienced figures like Shagaya providing not only capital but also guidance, the future looks bright for innovative African companies seeking to make a real difference on the continent. Shagaya’s venture stands as a testament to the growing strength and interconnectedness of the African tech ecosystem.
