Development Partners International

Development Partners International (DPI) is a prominent London-based private equity firm with a dedicated focus on making significant investments across the African continent. Established as a leading player in the region's private equity landscape, DPI targets high-growth companies in essential sectors such as financial services, consumer goods, healthcare, and industrials. The firm's strategy revolves around growth equity and buyout transactions, aiming to partner with strong management teams to build market-leading businesses that contribute to Africa's economic development.

DPI has successfully raised and managed a series of funds, accumulating over $2.8 billion in assets under management across its three flagship African Development Partners (ADP) funds. Its most recent fund, ADP III, closed at an impressive $900 million in 2020, making it one of the largest funds dedicated to African private equity. This substantial capital base allows DPI to execute large-scale investments and provide significant growth capital to its portfolio companies, often taking lead or co-lead positions in its deals.

The firm typically deploys substantial capital, with its first cheque sizes generally ranging from $30 million to $100 million per company. This substantial investment range underscores DPI's commitment to supporting mature, scalable businesses poised for significant expansion. To date, DPI has invested in 23 companies across 9 sectors and 29 African countries, demonstrating a broad geographical reach and diversified sector exposure. The firm also boasts a strong track record of value creation and successful exits, having realized 14 exits from its portfolio companies, reflecting its disciplined investment approach and ability to generate returns for its limited partners.

DPI's long-term commitment to Africa is evident in its sustained investment activity and its focus on fostering sustainable growth. By providing not only capital but also strategic and operational support, DPI aims to unlock the potential of African enterprises, driving job creation and economic prosperity across the continent. Its established presence and deep understanding of the African market position it as a key partner for businesses seeking substantial growth capital and strategic guidance.