Looking for funding for your startup can be tough. Sometimes it is difficult to know where to even start.
Things may have just got slightly easier, however, with the beta launch of CapitalFinder from AlliedCrowds, which claims to be the most complete database on alternative finance in the developing world.
The platform lists everything from crowdfunding platforms to VCs to government programmes,and allows entrepreneurs to narrow down the source of funding by type, sector and region. Plus, it’s free.
Data is available across 138 countries and 38 sectors. Over 1,700 providers of funding are listed so far, with AlliedCrowds focused on the developing world, excluding China. For example, there are 274 sources of capital listed for Kenya, 233 for South Africa, and 237 for Nigeria.
Anton Root, global associate at AlliedCrowds, told Disrupt Africa he company was looking at adding as many providers as possible.
“We started looking at crowdfunding, that was our core competency. But not every startup or entrepreneur can make full use out of crowdfunding, so we decided to help those entrepreneurs as well,” he said.
“We want to help them get their heads around looking for funding, and where to start. We have some great data, in terms of providers of capital and the sectors they operate it.”
Root said the platform would also serve a purpose in ensuring deal flow for lesser known providers of funding.
“I think it is a great way to help small organisations without great brand recognition. If we can point entrepreneurs in their direction then that is great,” he said.
