UVU Africa has been named one of Africa’s Top Fastest Growing Companies by the Financial Times in a prestigious ranking that recognises the most dynamic and impactful businesses across Africa. 

In a continent facing complex challenges and immense potential, this remarkable achievement highlights UVU Africa’s success in building inclusive ecosystems that are unlocking opportunities. 

25 years of UVU Africa’s Impact 

This year, the non-profit organisation is celebrating 25 years of impact and to be listed amongst Africa’s fastest growing companies in the same year, is a moment of celebration.   

Since its founding in 1999 as the Cape IT Initiative and the Bandwidth Barn — Africa’s first tech incubator — UVU Africa has grown into a multi-faceted systems orchestrator with a footprint in over 16 African countries and physical presence in five cities.  

UVU Africa’s business units CAPACITI, UVU Bio, Injini and UVU Accelerate play a critical role in driving skills development, fostering bio-innovation, accelerating EdTech and fuelling entrepreneurship in high growth sectors. 

Ian Merrington, CEO of UVU Africa, said “This recognition by the Financial Times is not just a reflection of our growth, it’s a testament to the power of inclusive innovation and the incredible people we’ve partnered with over the last 25 years. We’ve always believed that Africa’s greatest asset is its people. When we invest in their potential through skills, support, and infrastructure we create a future where innovation thrives and everyone can participate.” 

Over the past 25 years, UVU Africa has:

• Facilitated R1 billion in funding for SMEs and digital skills training
• Enabled over 6,760 job opportunities and helped youth earn more than R465 million in salaries
• Supported 880+ businesses, launched 209 new products, and trained 6,170 entrepreneurs
• Expanded its model across 16 countries, with flagship programmes in Rwanda and South Africa.

Beyond the Ranking: The Core of UVU Africa’s Growth Strategy 

UVU Africa’s comprehensive growth strategy is focused on ecosystem orchestration, high growth clusters and a commitment to inclusivity. Through ecosystem orchestration, UVU Africa’s collaborative approach fosters a fertile ground for innovation and ensures that solutions are relevant and impactful.  Building on this recognition, UVU Africa aims to replicate its proven models in 10 African cities by 2035, unlocking growth in key industries, creating pathways to employment and entrepreneurship, and shaping inclusive policies across the continent. 

For more about Africa’s Fastest-Growing Companies – read the Financial Mail article here