
Helios Investment Partners
Description
Helios Investment Partners is a prominent Africa-focused private equity firm, headquartered in London, with a significant and long-standing presence on the continent. Established over 18 years ago, the firm has solidified its reputation as a leading investor, strategically deploying capital across a diverse range of sectors including financial services, telecommunications, infrastructure, energy, and consumer goods. Helios's core strategy revolves around identifying and partnering with market-leading companies, providing both financial backing and strategic guidance to foster growth and contribute to Africa's economic development.
The firm manages substantial capital, with funds totaling over US$3.6 billion under management, enabling it to make significant investments. Helios typically seeks to acquire substantial minority stakes or control positions in its portfolio companies. Their investment approach is characterized by deep local market knowledge, active operational engagement, and a long-term perspective, aiming to capitalize on Africa's favorable demographic trends, increasing urbanization, and rapid digital adoption.
Helios boasts an impressive track record, having completed over 100 investments across 14 African countries. Notable past and current investments include stakes in key players like Fawry, a leading Egyptian digital payment platform, and M-KOPA, a Kenyan pay-as-you-go solar energy provider. The firm is recognized for its rigorous due diligence and its ability to navigate the complexities of African markets, leveraging a robust network of local partners and advisors to drive sustainable value creation and growth within its portfolio.
Investor Profile
Helios Investment Partners has backed more than 47 startups, with 7 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 21 rounds, about 45% of its total and boasts 8 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Private Equity, Debt Financing, Series B rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in Nigeria, United States, United Kingdom.
- Strong thematic focus on Financial Services, Payments, Energy.
- Led 5 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $50M – $200M.
Stage Focus
- Private Equity (40%)
- Debt Financing (15%)
- Series B (13%)
- Series A (6%)
- Series D (6%)
- Seed (6%)
- Series Unknown (6%)
- Post Ipo Equity (4%)
- Secondary Market (2%)
Country Focus
- Nigeria (30%)
- United States (13%)
- United Kingdom (11%)
- Egypt (9%)
- The Netherlands (9%)
- Kenya (6%)
- Singapore (4%)
- Lebanon (4%)
- India (4%)
- Gibraltar (2%)
Industry Focus
- Financial Services
- Payments
- Energy
- Fintech
- Mobile Payments
- Telecommunications
- Banking
- Oil And Gas
- Finance
- Renewable Energy
Frequently Asked Questions
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