Advancing bankable African start-ups

Prateek Suri, Chairman of the Maser Group, recently sat down with CNBC Africa to discuss the group's new investment arm, India Investments. This arm serves as a launching pad for startups in various continents, including Africa, India, the UK, and the Middle East. The focus is on supporting early-stage entrepreneurs and tech startups in need of funding and guidance. Suri emphasized that their goal is not just to provide financial support but also to leverage their robust global network to help these startups grow and create value for society. The Maser Group's decision to invest in Africa stems from the continent's emerging startup ecosystem, which presents numerous opportunities for growth and innovation. Suri highlighted Africa's potential as a key driver of the global startup ecosystem, emphasizing the need to include the continent in the market mix. With operations in Africa and a significant revenue generation in the region, the Maser Group sees untapped potential in the African market. When it comes to choosing which businesses to invest in, Suri emphasized the importance of evaluating not just the financial viability of a company but also the leadership qualities of the founders. Through one-on-one interviews and discussions, the group assesses the founder's potential, drive, and vision for the business. Additionally, their extensive network allows them to facilitate business operations in Africa for both local and foreign companies. Suri also acknowledged the growing trend of Africans returning to the continent to build businesses and create opportunities for themselves and their communities. This trend further underscores the importance of investing in African startups and supporting local entrepreneurs to drive economic growth and innovation. The Maser Group's commitment to advancing bankable African startups reflects their confidence in the continent's potential and their dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and technological advancement.