How can development finance better support the next generation of high-impact start-ups across Africa and Asia?
In the first of three special episodes recorded at the Development Finance Research and Practice Conference, we explore the role of seed-stage venture capital in supporting innovation, entrepreneurship and economic growth in emerging markets.
Host and chair Paddy Carter, Head of Development Economics at British International Investment (BII), is joined by Chirantan Patnaik, Head of Disruptive Ventures at BII, Priya Shah, Founder and General Partner of Theia Ventures, and Francesco Loiacono, Principal Research Economist at the EBRD.
Together, they examine the evidence behind successful seed-stage investing, the challenges faced by early-stage founders, and the role that development finance institutions, venture funds and catalytic capital can play in helping businesses scale and create impact.
Recorded live at the Development Finance Research and Practice Conference, organised by BII and the PEDL programme, this conversation brings together research and practical investment experience to explore how stronger start-up ecosystems can be built across Africa and Asia.
