We work with 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.
FOUNDER SUPPORT PILLARS
-
Guiding startups in building and maintaining strong relationships with UK investors to secure funding and support.
-
Assisting startups in identifying and forming strategic partnerships and client relationships within the UK market.
-
Advising on efficient operational strategies and talent acquisition to sustainably build a robust and effective team.
-
Ensuring startups understand and adhere to UK regulations, compliance standards, and governance practices.
-
Supporting startups in the logistical and strategic aspects of moving or expanding their business operations to the UK.
-
Connecting startups with key players and networks within the UK startup ecosystem to foster growth and collaboration.
-
Facilitating connections and support among startups through peer-to-peer learning and community building.
Founders will receive tailored support through a sprint-style plan that will cover 2-3 key support areas. To be eligible for F2F Sandbox, startups must be actively exploring or in the process of market expansion into the UK.
The following timeline is what to expect from a Founder Sprint:
WEEK 1
ONBOARDING & ASSESSMENT
Full business needs assessment from fundraising to expansion to define support and connections plan.
WEEK 2 - 5
DEEP DIVES & SUPPORT
Connect you with Expert Advisors for your business and provide specific capacity building for UK Market Entry.
WEEK 6 - 9
CONNECTIONS & FOLLOW-UPS
Provide bespoke connections into the UK Ecosystem & support with end to end engagement.
WEEK 10
OFF BOARDING & ACTION PLAN
Sprint review to assess outcomes and define follow-up action plan for further ecosystem and connections engagement.
FOLLOW-ON
TRACKING AND SUPPORT
Regular check-in’s to track progress of connections and activities. Providing ad-hoc support where needed.
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.
-
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
-
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.
-
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.
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.
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 us.
Sandbox Team
V54 Open Impact
