Cameroonian logistics tech startup Swyft has secured a pre-seed investment from the University of Michigan’s International Investment Fund (IIF), marking a significant step forward in its mission to streamline B2B and B2C delivery services throughout Cameroon. The investment will support Swyft’s expansion plans as it works to modernize logistics networks from major urban centers to remote last-mile destinations. With this deal, Swyft aims to further enhance its technology platform and strengthen its presence in Africa’s dynamic logistics sector.
A Strategic Partnership for Growth
Speaking about the investment, Swyft Founder and CEO Franck Batchadji described the deal as a milestone that will help the company scale more effectively across the region. He emphasized the shared commitment between Swyft and IIF to solving pressing logistics challenges, particularly around first-to-last mile delivery. Batchadji also expressed gratitude to the IIF for its belief in Swyft’s mission and acknowledged the valuable input from university students who contributed insight throughout the due diligence process.
Backing from a Global Fund with Emerging Market Focus
The IIF, launched in 2019 by the University of Michigan, focuses on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in emerging markets with promising growth trajectories. The fund views Swyft as a strong candidate for transformative impact in logistics, citing the startup’s innovative approach and the growing need for efficient delivery solutions in African markets. With Swyft’s emphasis on real-world challenges, particularly in underserved regions, IIF sees long-term potential for scalable impact across the continent.
Addressing a Critical Gap in African Infrastructure
Logistics remains a major bottleneck in many African economies, where poor infrastructure and fragmented services hinder the movement of goods. Swyft’s platform addresses these issues by optimizing delivery routes, automating logistics workflows, and offering tailored solutions for both businesses and end consumers. The startup’s ability to navigate both densely populated urban environments and remote rural areas sets it apart in a market where reliable delivery is often inconsistent.
Cameroon as the Launchpad
Swyft has already made significant strides in Cameroon, establishing operational capabilities that span from the country's largest metropolitan cities to distant, less accessible areas. With support from the IIF, the startup plans to scale these operations further while continuing to refine its core technology. The ultimate goal is to position Cameroon as a model for modern logistics in Africa and eventually replicate the approach in neighboring countries.
Strengthening the Ecosystem with Local Insight
Beyond financial support, the IIF partnership also includes ongoing mentorship, providing Swyft with access to a global network of experts and resources. Batchadji acknowledged the importance of this mentorship, highlighting the critical feedback and collaboration that helped refine the startup’s business model. He also praised the IIF community’s commitment to purpose-driven innovation, describing it as aligned with Swyft’s values of impact and inclusivity.
Pre-Seed Momentum for Future Expansion
While the exact amount of the pre-seed investment remains undisclosed, the backing of a respected international fund like IIF is expected to boost Swyft’s credibility with future investors and partners. This early-stage capital will be used to expand service coverage, recruit talent, and strengthen Swyft’s backend infrastructure.
Swyft’s pre-seed investment marks a new chapter in the evolution of logistics in Cameroon and potentially across the African continent. With the support of the IIF, the company is positioned to overcome traditional barriers in transport and supply chain delivery, bringing smart, efficient solutions to areas often overlooked by large logistics firms. As Swyft scales its impact, it reinforces the promise of technology-driven transformation in Africa’s growing digital economy.