Delta40 launches Nigeria Venture Studio to drive innovation in key sectors
Delta40, a Venture Studio and VC Fund focused on energy, agriculture, fintech, and AI, officially launched its Nigeria Venture Studio in Lagos on April 30, 2025. The event, held in partnership with Nithio, an AI-driven clean energy investment platform, brought together key stakeholders including the Minister of Trade, Industry and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole MFR, and Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade & Investments.
Dr. Oduwole praised Delta40 for its role in fostering technology-driven businesses and supporting Nigeria’s economic diversification. “We’re keen to see small businesses become African giants and have global representation,” she said during the event.
Launched in 2023, Delta40 has already supported over 50 founders across Africa and made significant investments in ventures transforming key industries. With its expansion into Nigeria, Delta40 announced investments in three Nigerian ventures: Ecowaka, led by Prince Ojeabulu and Diekola Alabi; SunFi, founded by Rotimi Thomas and Tomiwa Igun; and Lori Systems, led by Jean-Claude Hemawoo.
Ada Osakwe, Delta40’s Board Chair, expressed excitement about expanding into Nigeria. “We are committed to investing in African and female founders in energy and agriculture, and we’re not afraid to invest in capital-intensive ventures that create jobs and drive economic growth,” she said.
Delta40 Board Director Jay Ireland, former President & CEO of GE Africa, highlighted the immense potential for entrepreneurs in Nigeria. “Delta40 is pioneering a new model of investment and venture studio support in Africa,” he stated, emphasizing Nigeria’s growing market and strong public-private sector collaboration.
The Delta40 Venture Studio model operates on four pillars: providing embedded support from idea to scale, early-stage lead investments to unlock capital, ecosystem partnerships to catalyze networks, and exits that create returns for further innovation.
Managing Partner Lyndsay Holley Handler spoke about the importance of the venture studio model, saying, “We are here to propel the next generation of entrepreneurs in West Africa, bringing a dynamic coalition of partners together to drive innovation.”
Mrs. Ambrose-Medebem concluded with a strong endorsement of Delta40’s approach, noting, “This is the beginning of a powerful partnership between Lagos State and Delta40, which will help accelerate innovation and economic growth.”
