Betting on Infrastructure: Aions Ventures Backs Climate Solutions
Johannesburg-based venture capital firm Aions Ventures has launched a R100 million ($6 million) seed fund focused on climate technology, energy innovation, and water sustainability. This move signals a shift in African investment patterns away from the fintech dominance of recent years.
The new Aions Seed Fund I will support early-stage startups developing solutions for critical infrastructure challenges facing South Africa and beyond. CEO Kerryn Campion believes the country’s next billion-dollar startup will emerge from these sectors rather than digital payments.
Addressing Critical Needs
South Africa faces pressing issues including energy insecurity (load shedding), water shortages, and aging infrastructure. Aions Ventures is betting that technology-driven solutions to these problems can create scalable businesses with export potential.
The fund includes:
- R60 million from the High Impact Seed Fund of Funds (HISFoF)
- R40 million commitment from the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA)