Credit that builds. Africa that grows

Senior-secured private credit to cash-generative businesses across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda & Ethiopia.

About Novartis Investment Partners
Novartis Investment Partners is an East Africa-focused private credit and growth capital platform providing flexible financing to established SMEs and mid-market businesses in essential sectors — including financial services, healthcare, education, agribusiness, manufacturing, FMCG, logistics, and clean energy — across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Ethiopia.

East Africa faces a $41B+ annual SME financing gap. Traditional banks require collateral of 150% or more, offer maximum tenors of 3–5 years, and set minimum ticket sizes above $10M — leaving the $500K–$9M segment structurally unserved. Novartis Investment Partners exists to fill that gap with bespoke structures banks won't offer: revenue-linked facilities, asset-backed working capital, and senior secured loans matched to real business growth timelines.
Unlock Capital Where Banks Don’t Reach
Tailored investment solutions for the underserved mid-market.

The Fund is structured with first-loss tranche capability, a technical assistance facility, and risk-sharing mechanisms designed to mobilise DFI and institutional capital into underserved East African markets. We are aligned with IFC Performance Standards.

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Our on-the-ground Nairobi-based team sources proprietary deal flow from banks, DFIs, and accelerators across five East African markets. We review 80 opportunities per year and fund approximately 6 — giving us the selectivity to maintain credit quality while moving at 45–90 days from screening to disbursement.

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We offer bespoke financing structures traditional banks won't touch — including revenue-linked facilities, asset-backed working capital, and first-lien senior secured loans. 75% of the portfolio is in senior secured credit, with strong downside protection through collateral packages and covenant-driven underwriting.

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Every deal requires at least two of five 2X Challenge criteria across ownership, leadership, employment, entrepreneurship, or value chain inclusion.

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The Fund operates with an independent Investment Committee, quarterly LP reporting, and ESG screening embedded throughout underwriting and portfolio management. Domiciled in Mauritius (FSC regulated), with the Investment Manager registered in Kenya.

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We maintain active portfolio engagement through monthly financial monitoring, an early-warning watchlist system, and hands-on operational support — designed to strengthen portfolio performance and protect downside before issues escalate.

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  • Nairobi, Kenya
  •  Mon-Fri - 08:00-19:00