Dream VC, a talent network for venture capital in Africa, has recently announced the selection of 54 fellows from 22 different countries for its flagship VC accelerator program in 2023. This program aims to assist both current and aspiring investors in entering the African venture space.
Established in 2021, Dream VC has successfully trained over 80 African and Africa-focused investment professionals across three consecutive cohorts. Many of these individuals now hold prominent positions within leading African venture and technology companies, actively contributing to the investment landscape.
Dream VC’s annual remote venture capital fellowship programs, namely “Launch into VC” and “Investor Accelerator (IA),” serve as launchpads for individuals looking to break into the African venture sector. These programs offer an extensive curriculum, practical training, and direct exposure to world-class investors.
The latest IA program, with 54 selected participants, has been designed as a comprehensive course for experienced professionals, existing investors, and senior operators who aspire to become future ecosystem builders in Africa. Graduates from this program have joined firms collectively managing assets worth $1.1 billion, assuming influential roles within venture capital and private equity firms, thus facilitating significant investment into African startups.
The application process to become part of Dream VC’s community is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of only 12 percent. This year’s cohort has doubled and comprises fellows from 22 nationalities worldwide. Notably, this is the first cohort to have a majority representation from East Africa, with Kenyans constituting 15 percent of the group. Additionally, 43 percent of the fellows identify as female, highlighting a commitment to promoting gender diversity.
The IA program has attracted participants from several ecosystems represented in Dream VC for the first time, including Botswana, Algeria, Somaliland, and Burundi. For a complete list of participants, please refer to the provided link.