Kinjani emerged from a need to connect Africa’s science-based innovators with the knowledge and funding to take them from spark to scale to summit.
We support projects in agriculture, restorative mining, urbanisation, and manufacturing that build durable, life-giving systems — empowering our continent’s innovators to lead the global shift toward regenerative industry with capital, community, and credibility.
OUR VALUES
By Africa, for Africa. We support local talent and nurture solutions that respond to the continent’s realities. At Kinjani, we believe that innovation rooted in local context drives relevance, resilience, and long-term impact, so our approach blends global insight with African ingenuity — cross-pollinated, never copy-pasted.
Inspired by nature, we pursue steady, sustainable progress that challenges traditional venture capital (VC) models. Our approach nurtures businesses that give back more than they take — like a thriving ecosystem — and we aim to cultivate holistic, non-extractive, and resilient growth for humans and non-humans alike.
We build networks that support founders from spark to summit, fostering collaboration and collective progress. Kinjani empowers innovators by connecting knowledge, sharing resources, and strengthening capacity — transformation happens when minds and resources unite through community.
True innovation starts with proven science, so our work is grounded in rigorous, cutting-edge research that turns breakthroughs into practical ventures. Kinjani invests in physical infrastructure and lab time to validate solutions that address Africa’s toughest challenges.
At Kinjani, we see diverse ideas, disciplines, and perspectives as essential tools for unlocking Africa’s full innovative potential. That’s why we shape our vibrant ecosystem with a wide spectrum of founders, uplifting underrepresented voices and opening doors for those who are often overlooked.
OUR 2024 PROGRAMME IN NUMBERS
421
applicants from across Sub-Saharan Africa
25
industry-leading mentors
31
founders invited to join Kinjani Cohort 1
22
founders formed teams
11
companies built
40
speakers
OUR TEAM
OUR FOUNDING TEAM
CAITLIN WALE
Founder & CEO
Caitlin has spent her career at the intersection of engineering, climate, and capital. A South African civil engineer by training, she transitioned from mine rehabilitation to advising architects on low-carbon systems in London, followed by roles in ESG strategy and carbon removal funding at Octopus Investments and Counteract. Caitlin returned to South Africa to launch Kinjani, catalysing local founders building globally relevant climate solutions.
JENNY DOVE
Operations & Programme Manager
Jenny is an environmental and social expert with experience supporting DFIs, impact investors, and private equity funds across Africa. She has worked in sectors from agriculture to renewables, and has led programmes supporting early-stage founders. Jenny also ran her own sustainable products business in South Africa. She holds degrees in Marine Biology and Ocean & Atmospheric Science from the University of Cape Town.
HAYLEY MOLE
Venture Partner
Hayley specialises in impact and private market investments. In her last role as VP at Flat World Partners in NYC, she led fund manager due diligence for global clients. With roots in South African agribusiness, she holds a BSc in Genetics from Stellenbosch and a Master’s in Sustainability Management from Columbia University. She also serves as President of the Young Investors Organisation, a 1,700-member global network.
LLOYD WEST
Venture Capital
Lloyd is a seasoned investment professional with over 17 years in private equity, VC, and strategic advisory across the US, UK, and South Africa. His expertise lies in fund formation, capital raising, and scaling early-stage investment platforms. He holds a degree in Economics from the University of California, Davis.
TEASHA SCHEFFERS
Analyst
Teasha supports Kinjani with administration and operations. She has investment experience in private markets, venture capital, and investment advisory. She has worked with investment firms on CRM configuration, pipeline tracking, reporting, and investor communications, supporting fundraising and deal flow management.
SARAH-ANNE ALMAN
Programme Advisor
Sarah-Anne is an experienced venture builder with over 15 years experience in supporting social and environmental initiatives in more than 30 countries. Her expertise lies in strategy, operations, and impact management. She holds an MBA from the University of Cape Town.
A SELECTION OF OUR ADVISORS & MENTORS
