Why the Rhino? A Different Investment Philosophy
In venture capital, the world is obsessed with Unicorns -high growth startups that reach billion-dollar valuations. However in frontier and fragile markets in Africa, the pursuit of resilient, scalable, and impact-driven businesses is what truly defines success. We believe in investing in Rhinos (Rhinoceros) —strong, adaptable & enduring businesses that thrive in challenging environments and deliver real, sustainable value. At Rhino Fund, we don't chase unicorns we build Rhinos: startups that create lasting economic impact in Africa, and beyond.
Investing Where Africa Meets the Middle East – A Unique Strategic Advantage
Operating at the intersection of Africa and the Middle East, Rhino Impact Fund stands at the crossroads of two dynamic economic landscapes. Sudan and its neighboring regions are uniquely positioned as a bridge between North Africa, East Africa, and the GCC, presenting untapped market opportunities that few investors have fully explored.
Unlike traditional VC models, we bring on-the-ground expertise, deep-rooted networks, and a proven track record of navigating and succeeding in some of the world’s most complex markets.
A Decade of Hands-On Venture Building
Our team brings over 10 years of experience in entrepreneurship, venture support, and impact investing, making us one of the most experienced investors in similar context
Resilience in High-Risk Markets
Investing in frontier markets is not for the faint-hearted, but we have mastered the art of de-risking early-stage ventures. Through local partnerships, strategic capital allocation, and long-term founder support, we ensure startups don’t just survive, but thrive.
Proven Success in Emerging Economies
Despite economic and political uncertainties, we have backed Sudanese founders who scaled beyond borders, proving that resilient businesses can emerge from challenging environments.
Diverse & Global Networks
We are backed by a highly experienced and diverse team—with expertise & networks spanning the GCC, ME and Africa’s major startup ecosystems.
Our investors and advisors include local founders , regional investors, VCs, and global development partners, ensuring that we provide startups with the best of both local knowledge and global scale.
STRENGTH IN IMPACT | RESILIENCE IN GROWTH
Launched in 2022, the Rhino Impact Fund became Sudan’s first-ever equity investment program, run with the rigor and structured like a fund, with our first LPs compromised of diaspora angel investors. It is a Pre-Seed/Seed venture capital fund investing in high-potential businesses that are solving Africa’s toughest challenges. We are backed by 249Startups, Sudan’s leading ecosystem enabler, with a proven track record of funding and scaling businesses in high-risk & fragile markets.
✔ Strength & Endurance – Built to last, not just to exit
✔ Resilience – Thrives in difficult markets, adapts to challenges
✔ Sustainable Growth – Focuses on measurable impact, not just valuations
A $20M Vision: Be Part of the Impact
We don’t operate in isolation—our work is strengthened by partnerships with some of the world’s leading development finance institutions (DFIs), accelerators, and private sector stakeholders. With the Backing of 249Startups, that have already :
✔ Mobilized access to over $20M+ in capital for entrepreneurs
✔ Funded and supported 500+ startups & SMEs
✔ Created & supported over 3,000 jobs across multiple industries
✔ Backed by Global, Regional actors & Impact partners including DGGF, Orange Corners, CFYE, AfDB, GIZ, KfW & UNDP in addition to Angels, Family offices & corporates, .
Explore some of Rhino portfolio companies
Enigma AI is omnichannel communication platform that leverages advanced natural language processing technology & AI-powered chatbots to enable businesses to automate operations and sales, and optimize customer experience.
Enigma AI | AI DeepTech
Saudi Arabia
Nil Pay is a FinTech startup that provides digital financial solutions for SMEs and underserved communities. It focuses on providing services to the unbanked through offline transactions, agency banking solutions, and digital wallets
Nil Pay | FinTech
Sudan
Tejan is dedicated to empowering women by offering a diverse range of skincare products as well. Their skincare integrates African heritage with modern science featuring products for skin hydration and acne treatment.
Tejan | FemTech
Uganda
Join Us. Co-Invest with us in the Future.
We invite investors, LPs, and corporate partners to join us in backing the next generation of resilient, high-growth startups.
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