Centurion-based startup Nile is rapidly reshaping how agriculture works across Africa through technology-driven innovation. Founded in 2021, Nile is leveraging digital platforms to make food trading safer, more transparent, and more efficient for farmers and buyers alike. With a focus on eliminating unnecessary intermediaries, the company is streamlining cross-border trade and access to critical farm supplies.
Backed by Major Investors
In July 2025, Nile.ag secured $11.3 million in Series A funding led by Cathay AfricInvest Innovation Fund, bringing its total capital raised to $17 million. Other key backers include Naspers Foundry, FMO (the Dutch Entrepreneurial Development Bank), AfricInvest, and Platform Investment Partners. The funding marks a significant step forward in scaling Nile’s core offerings and expanding its reach across African markets.
A Comprehensive Platform for Farmers
Nile’s services span three main areas: trade, transact, and logistics. Through its B2B marketplace, the startup connects buyers and producers for secure and traceable transactions involving fresh produce, streamlining price discovery and payment flows. In addition, the Inputs Marketplace allows farmers to purchase supplies directly from manufacturers and access data-driven input financing tailored to their operations.
Technology and Logistics at the Core
What sets Nile apart is its robust infrastructure that supports seamless cross-border trading. The company has built a digital and logistical ecosystem designed to remove friction from the agricultural value chain. By reducing dependency on middlemen, farmers benefit from fairer prices and better market access, enabling them to scale and thrive in competitive environments.
Experienced Founding Team
Nile.ag was co-founded by Louis de Kock, Eugene Roodt, and Rick Kleinhans, each bringing distinct expertise to the venture. Louis, who hails from a farming background, previously worked in Amazon’s EU and US e-commerce teams and helped launch Amazon Go’s produce division. Eugene’s background in investment banking with J.P. Morgan complements Rick’s deep experience in software and scaling startups, including his key role at Luno.
Strategic Growth Through Talent
As part of its 2025 expansion, Nile has strengthened its team with new hires across strategic functions. These appointments include roles in data science, input supply management, commercial exports, partner relationships, and operations. The expanded team will play a critical role in enhancing service delivery and supporting the company's growing farmer network.
Strong Presence at NAMPO Harvest Day
Nile.ag recently showcased its platform at NAMPO Harvest Day, South Africa’s leading agricultural trade show. The event provided an opportunity to connect directly with farmers and stakeholders, demonstrating the company’s end-to-end solutions for produce and input trading. Nile’s presence underscored its growing influence in the agritech sector and commitment to driving digital adoption in agriculture.
With Series A funding secured, a growing team, and strong investor backing, Nile.ag is well-positioned to scale its impact across the continent. By blending advanced technology with deep agricultural insight, the startup is building a future where African farmers can trade effortlessly and profitably. As Nile continues to expand its reach, it remains focused on empowering farmers and transforming the agricultural economy at large.