What the Project Is
I&P is a pioneering impact investment group, fully dedicated to financing and supporting start-ups and small and medium enterprises in Sub-Saharan Africa. Since its creation in 2002, this initiative has been committed to promoting sustainable and profitable SMEs with high local added value. The project’s mission revolves around enabling the growth of African entrepreneurship through a combination of financing and hands-on support. The group has consistently enhanced the local entrepreneurial ecosystem over the years, adapting its approach based on the maturity, size, and specific financing needs of each business.
Main Benefit
Key figures and facts highlight the impact of this project:
- Over 200 small and medium enterprises supported in about twenty different countries.
- Investment of 400 million euros raised to fuel sustainable development.
- A solid impact mandate with a rigorous methodology to track and maximize benefits.
- An innovative model combining four complementary ranges of activities.
- A strong commitment to promoting entrepreneurship that is locally rooted in Africa.
Innovative Approaches
The project has constructed an innovative model designed to best meet both the financing and support needs of African SMEs. This model is not static – it flexibly adapts to the varied needs of start-ups, depending on their maturity and size. By combining traditional financing techniques with tailored support activities, I&P is able to offer a comprehensive service package that addresses real business challenges. It’s a dynamic mix that emphasizes not only capital injection but also the ongoing support that helps these enterprises thrive in competitive markets.
Commitment to Impact
At the very heart of this initiative lies a deep commitment to impact. The group has established a robust methodology to diligently track and maximize the impacts of its partner companies. This level of commitment reflects a broader vision – the rise of a performing entrepreneurial fabric in Africa, which is seen as essential for sustainable development and social cohesion on the continent. Every investment decision is made with clear social and economic outcomes in mind, ensuring that every euro contributed translates into measurable impact within the local communities.
Support for Emerging Entrepreneurs
The emergence of a new generation of African entrepreneurs is a cornerstone of this project’s vision. Through a rich blend of financing and personalized support, I&P has been instrumental in nurturing talent and ambition across various sectors. The approach is refreshingly dynamic – aimed at providing the right resources exactly when they are needed… This careful balance of support and autonomy helps businesses evolve organically while ensuring they remain agile in today’s competitive market. By focusing on local added value and sustainable business practices, the initiative fosters long-term success and durable economic growth.
Project Impact
- No Poverty – by empowering local SMEs, the project contributes to reducing poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Decent Work and Economic Growth – the financing and support provided help create jobs and stimulate local economies.
- Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – with a focus on building a performing entrepreneurial fabric, the group drives innovation and infrastructure development.
- Reduced Inequalities – the project’s inclusive approach helps bridge gaps and promote equitable growth across diverse regions.
- Partnerships for the Goals – strong local and international partnerships are at the core, enhancing the project’s ability to achieve widespread sustainable impact.
The Road Ahead
Looking to the future, the project is set on contributing to the emergence of 500 champions of entrepreneurship in Africa by 2030. Such an ambitious target underscores the project’s forward-thinking approach and its belief in the transformative power of local businesses. With a noteworthy B Corp score of 96.5, this initiative stands out among equity investing projects in emerging markets, firmly anchored in its commitment to Financing and Africa. The journey so far has been marked by steady success and impactful interventions – a story laid out with precision and genuine dedication. As the project continues to evolve, its blend of strategic financing and tailored support remains a beacon of hope and progress, steadily paving the way for a brighter economic future across the continent.
