Building the Future of Work: Two Kenyan Startups Secure Investments

Fuzu, a talent infrastructure provider, and Kyosk, a B2B commerce platform for informal retailers, have received funding from the Jobtech Alliance. This move highlights growing investor confidence in African digital solutions as they address key market needs.

The Jobtech Alliance, launched by Mercy Corps and BFA Global, focuses on creating an enabling environment for inclusive job tech platforms across Africa. Recent investments include Bumpa (Nigeria) and Flowcart (Kenya), demonstrating a commitment to supporting ventures that improve livelihoods and enable decent work.

Fuzu: From Talent Marketplace to Managed Services

Fuzu has transitioned from its original marketplace model to offer managed teams for AI data operations, evaluation, and quality assurance—a strategic pivot identified through the Alliance’s Digital Work Sector Scan. This allows them to deliver higher-value services that global clients can use to build real products.

“Most African talent platforms still compete on volume and price,” noted Nick Markham, investment lead at Jobtech Alliance. “Fuzu has already moved beyond that by building the underlying infrastructure and now delivering managed teams—one of the most credible solutions for where good digital jobs in Africa will come from next.” The investment will support Fuzu’s international client growth and positioning as a provider of AI-adjacent talent.

Kyosk: Optimizing Commerce for Informal Retailers

Kyosk serves over 200,000 informal retailers across East and West Africa with its B2B commerce platform. The investment aligns with the Alliance’s focus on platforms that solve daily workflow challenges for micro-enterprises.

“African B2B commerce is maturing,” said Mide Alonge, senior venture builder at Jobtech Alliance. “The winners will be those who can bridge fragmented workflows—from inventory to delivery and repeat orders.” Kyosk’s operational improvements, including consolidating warehouses and focusing on route economics, demonstrate the discipline needed for success in this market.