South African venture capital firm Knife Capital has marked its 15th anniversary with a major announcement: new Series A investments in two homegrown startups, Sticitt and Optique. This milestone underscores the firm’s ongoing commitment to scaling innovative African businesses with global potential. The announcement highlights Knife Capital’s role in shaping the region’s entrepreneurial landscape since its inception in 2010.
A Pan-African Investment Powerhouse
With operational bases in Cape Town, London, and Jersey, Knife Capital is known for backing high-growth, innovation-driven companies through its investment funds KNF I, KNF II, and Knife Fund III. The latest funding, part of KNF II, targets ventures that combine strong business fundamentals with forward-thinking solutions. Over the years, the firm has developed a robust portfolio by leveraging strategic networks, deep sector knowledge, and a hands-on investment approach.
Sticitt: Modernizing School Payments
Founded in 2018, fintech startup Sticitt is transforming how schools across South Africa manage financial transactions. The company’s platform consolidates all school-related payments into one digital solution, improving financial transparency and ease of use. Having already established a presence in 841 schools and with over 75,700 users, Sticitt’s latest funding round marks a pivotal moment in its growth journey.
Empowering Schools for a Digital Future
Theo Kitshoff, CEO and founder of Sticitt, emphasized the strategic value Knife Capital brings to the table. He noted that the firm’s experience, proven track record, and international networks would be critical in scaling the company further. Kitshoff believes that through this partnership, Sticitt will help schools become more sustainable and foster better financial habits among young learners.
Optique: Reinventing Vision Care
Established a year earlier in 2017, Optique is reimagining the optometry industry by blending digital enablement with accessibility and affordability. The company operates 19 franchise-owned branches across South Africa, alongside an e-commerce platform, disrupting the traditional brick-and-mortar model of eye care. Its mission is to make world-class optometry simple and attainable for the average consumer.
Scaling Impact with Strategic Support
Leon van Vuuren, founder of Optique, views Knife Capital’s investment as a catalyst for accelerated growth and expanded service delivery. He explained that the backing would allow the company to enhance its digital infrastructure, grow its branch network, and reach underserved communities more efficiently. Van Vuuren emphasized that the ultimate goal is to democratize eye care across South Africa and beyond.
Backing Bold Problem Solvers
Commenting on the dual investment, Knife Capital co-founder and partner Keet van Zyl reiterated the firm’s commitment to supporting purpose-driven entrepreneurs. He praised both Sticitt and Optique for addressing pressing real-world challenges through innovative solutions. According to van Zyl, these businesses exemplify the blend of innovation, traction, and tenacity that Knife Capital seeks in its portfolio companies.
The Series A funding for Sticitt and Optique marks more than just an investment—it signals Knife Capital’s continued mission to back African businesses capable of global impact. As the firm celebrates 15 years of success, it remains focused on driving scale, sustainability, and strategic growth across key sectors. These latest investments set the tone for the next chapter in Knife Capital’s journey as a catalyst for African innovation.