There several types of tech startups and each of them can be profitable, but according to statistics, some are more likely to make money than others, especially in Africa. The difference between them boils down to factors like the industry trends, target market, funding, and business model.
7 Most Profitable Tech Startups Fields In Africa
7. Cybersecurity startups: Cybersecurity startups offer clients services like threat detection, vulnerability management, and encryption. The industry has seen increased demands for similar services as more African companies continue to go online and embrace cloud computing. According to Startup List Africa, startups in this field have raised $10.2 million in funding since 2017.
6. Artificial Intelligence (AI) startups: AI startups rely on machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision solve complex problems in various industries. While there is potential for these kinds of startups to grow in 2023, they have not really done well so far. The industry has been plagued with lack of local talent and limited adoption. Yet, it has managed to raise a cumulative $250+ million in funding.
5. Healthcare technology startups: Healthcare technology startups use technology to offer solutions that improve healthcare outcomes. Some of these include telemedicine, remote monitoring, personalised medicine, patient management platforms, suppliers management, and so on. One major problem with healthcare startups profitability in Africa is because the client target size is small as it is usually reserved for the rich, while many living in the region are poor. There is also the regulatory issues, limited capital, and cultural barriers. Yet, startups in this industry raised a funding of $500 million between 2020 and 2021, as a Tech Cabal article claimed.
4. EdTech startups: EdTech startups provide innovative solutions to problems relating to education through online teaching and training platforms. They give students an alternative way to learn and often offer a more personalised approach. However, many factors have challenged their profitability including the fact that education is a highly regulated industry with governmental bodies controlling most of the proceedings. The African EdTech industry has seen a funding of more than $1 billion injected into it.
3. E-commerce startups: With over $4 billion invested in this industry, E-commerce startups offer a wide range of products or services that allow customers shop online. These companies include big names like Jumia, Konga, Homzmart, and others.
2. Software as a Service (SaaS) startups: These startups offer software applications solutions which they deliver over the internet and charge on a subscription basis. The 2020s has seen an explosion in SaaS startups in Africa because many companies are digitising their processes. It is one of the most profitable industries in Africa.
1. FinTech startups: FinTech startups are the most profitable among African startups. They use technology to provide financial services like digital payments, mobile banking, and more. Startup List Africa says that fintechs in the continent have raised more than $12 billion in funding.
It’s important to remember that these are just a few examples, and that profitability is never guaranteed. In addition, the more profitable an industry is, the more competitive it will be as more people will be looking to get their heads in through its promising doors.
For your daily dose of tech, lifestyle, and trending content, make sure to follow Plat4om on Twitter @Plat4omLive, on Instagram @Plat4om, on LinkedIn at Plat4om, and on Facebook at Plat4om. You can also email us at info@plat4om.com and join our channel on Telegram at Plat4om. Finally, don’t forget to subscribe to OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL.
