Zydii, a Kenyan EdTech platform secures pre-seed funding to revolutionize the landscape of employee training methods
Zydii, an innovative EdTech platform based in Kenya, is revolutionizing employee training by providing comprehensive digital courses on both technical and soft skills. Recently, the company secured significant pre-seed funding, although the exact amount remains undisclosed. This exciting development was made public on May 17th, capturing the attention of global investors.
Leading the fundraising efforts was Dob Equity, a renowned Dutch private equity firm, accompanied by three other prominent entities. Kua Ventures, a distinguished Kenyan investor, and Kaleo Ventures, a venture capital company specializing in African enterprises, joined forces with Dob Equity. Additionally, the Nairobi Business Angel Network (NaiBAN), a collective of angel investors and entrepreneurs from Kenya, united in support of Zydii's mission.
In 2017, Joyce Mbaya, a visionary computer scientist, played a pivotal role in the inception of Zydii. With the fresh infusion of funds, the company aims to solidify its presence in Kenya and expand its operations to Nigeria and South Africa. Mbaya herself envisions this strategic move as a means to bridge the skills gap in the African job market and enhance the competencies of the working population.
The investment in Zydii marks Dob Equity's second foray into African businesses in 2023, also being their second investment in a Kenyan company. Notably, the firm takes pride in a substantial portion of their portfolio being comprised of women-led enterprises, showcasing their commitment to empowering women in business.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) constitute nearly 80% of the African workforce, serving as the backbone of both formal and informal sectors. However, these businesses often encounter obstacles due to a shortage of skilled personnel, impeding their growth and efficiency.
Zydii's groundbreaking platform addresses this pressing issue head-on, offering a breath of fresh air. By equipping workers with the necessary technical and soft skills, the company stands poised to make a significant impact on the African job market, empowering businesses and fostering economic growth.