Alternative Sources of Finance for Uganda: Jacana Partners

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Disclaimer

I am not an agent or connected to this entity. The information provided below is independent as based on my research and experience. Whilst I have taken steps to ensure the accuracy of the information presented here, there can be no guarantee that it will remain accurate.

Basic information

Target: Established entity – with three years audited financials and a track record of sales and profits.

Sector focus: None in particular

Amounts provided: $0.5- $5million

Funding type: Private equity

Further information: East Africa contact: +254(0) 20 250 4775 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting FREE

Who is behind the Fund?

Founded in 2008 by a group of UK entrepreneurs and philanthropists, it initially worked through two local fund managers: Fidelity Capital in West Africa and InReturn Capital in East Africa.

The structure combines highly experienced private equity veterans from Europe with expert teams on-the-ground. It has now commenced a merger (Jan 2013) to create a pan- African fund manager that will manage a new $75m pan-African SME fund. Jacana is currently raising from international investors.

It currently has $45m in funds under investment provided by a number of individual and institutional investors including FMO (a dutch investment bank), Oiko credit (a co-operative and social investor) and Finn fund (a development fund).

What is the process like?

It’s set out on their website but they in summary expect to move from start to finish within 1 month, with the key “in principle”approval being given after about 1 month.

In summary:

• An initial executive summary from your business plan is submitted to them.
• If they are interested, it is more likely that they will then request for a detailed business plan.
• Thereafter they will follow this up with a face to face meeting to assess the opportunity.
• Once they approve in principle, the other aspects include the due diligence and closing.

My tips for success?

• High growth. Like many private equity firms, they are keen on established businesses with high growth focus. They do highlight for example that they expect the revenue to be about 5 times their initial investment once they exit. Your business should therefore be able to deliver high returns, otherwise it is not worth developing the plan.
• Team. For a private equity firm, similar to a venture capital firm, a solid team is a key factor. You must put in place a strong team, one that considers good corporate governance, ethics and strong financial controls as key.
• Clear business plan. When drawing up your business plan, have a clear and articulate strategy that will show where growth is going to come from. Illustrate the business competitive advantage i.e you are doing it better or different from the others.

Otherwise, best of luck.

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Source by D E Wasake