Equipping African Startups & Venture Capital Funds with everything they need to expand, scale and raise capital in the UK. Yes, everything.
F2F Sandbox
An initiative run by V54 Open Impact, the nonprofit arm of Ventures 54, funded by the UK Government, UK South Africa Tech Hub and supported by ecosystem partner Startup Club ZA.
HI THERE. WE’RE F2F SANDBOX!
Startup founders and funders across Africa are increasingly seeking ways to leverage global markets to enhance their access to capital, talent, and networks. However, many face challenges in identifying effective strategies and tools.
The Founder 2 Funder (F2F) Sandbox initiative addresses this by offering tailored support to African startup founders and venture capital fund managers seeking access to the UK ecosystem.
Sandbox delivers an on-demand support programme that helps foster business growth and expansion - whether for commercial, operational, or fundraising purposes, ensuring founders and funders achieve their specific market access goals.
Our latest South African focused edition of Sandbox application window is now closed. Go to our Application Portal for everything you need to future Sandbox launches, eligibility criteria, how to apply and getting in touch.
OPTION 1
Sandbox for Founders
F2F Sandbox connects high potential African technology startups with operators, market makers and investors that will support them in market expansion primarily into the UK. Currently assisting startups from South Africa, Kenya and Nigeria only.
OPTION 2
Sandbox for Funds
F2F Sandbox supports emerging and established managers of African Venture Capital Funds with accessing LP capital and exit enablement. Including UK operational and platform expansion for portfolio support requirements.
UK-AFRICA ECOSYSTEM DAY
The flagship gathering for African founders, delegations and ecosystem leaders at London Tech Week
F2F Sandbox hosts its annual gathering for Africa's visiting ecosystem founders, operators and investors together with the best of the UK support ecosystem. In a nutshell a physical Sandbox to allow Africa and the UK tech ecosystem to connect, learn and create opportunities all under one roof.
🗓️ Wednesday, 11 June @ 15:30 – 22:30
📍 Uncommon Liverpool Street, London
RESOURCES LIBRARY
UK Market Entry Pack
Our tactical playbook for South African founders expanding to the UK. Built for Seed to Series A ventures, this 60-minute read covers everything from incorporation, visas, and fundraising, to relocation and hiring.
EUK Market Entry Webinars
A three-part live series designed for African founders and startup teams exploring the UK as a launch market. Whether you’re raising your first international round or building your go-to-market playbook, join us for live Q&A and founder-led insights.
Application Portal
F2F Sandbox is a UK-Africa vehicle providing tailored Sandboxes for African markets to access the UK. We have active and developing Sandboxes, each catering to specific regional needs.
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Are a successful application period F2F Sandbox is no longer accepting applications. This edition is exclusively for South African Startups and Funds, for selected organisations the Sandbox will run from late May to July 2025. To find out more about Sandbox and Eligibility Criteria for future application openings:
1) To find out more & check your eligibility to apply: Click Here
2) Want to be notified of our next Sandbox: Submit Interest Here
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We are currently concluding a pilot Sandbox activation in Nigeria and will be launching a full Sandbox later this year. Keep your eyes peeled or to be notified of its launch submit a request here.
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We are currently concluding a pilot Sandbox activation in Kenya and will be launching a full F2F Sandbox later this year. Keep your eyes peeled or to be notified of its launch submit a request here.
LET’S CHAT
If you are a founder or fund manager looking for UK market access support. Or an ecosystem support organization that can provide support to African founders and fund managers with market expansion. Then get in touch with our team.
Sandbox Team
V54 Open Impact
