10 Startups to Watch in 2025 in South Africa

South Africa’s startup scene in 2025 is booming, with innovative companies tackling challenges in agriculture, health, fintech, and more. These startups are driving change with AI, digital tools, and sustainable solutions. Here’s a quick look at the top 10 startups making waves:

• Agrigistics: Boosting farm productivity with smart tools like biometric workforce management and pest surveillance.
• Itakane Health: Using AI to improve workplace health and reproductive care with 98% diagnostic accuracy.
• BATTALION Technologies: Protecting small businesses with advanced cybersecurity solutions.
• Dark Pools: AI-driven data analysis for fraud detection, customer insights, and risk reduction.
• Fintech Systems: Affordable, mobile-friendly digital payment solutions for underserved communities.
• Africa Slurry Pump Solutions: IoT-enabled slurry pumps improving mining efficiency and reducing energy use.
• Stitch: Open banking platform enabling secure, one-click payments and crypto integration.
• PayCurve: Early wage access and financial tools reducing employee absenteeism and turnover.
• Green Riders: Electric bikes for sustainable last-mile delivery, cutting carbon emissions.
• The Compost Kitchen: Turning food waste into compost, promoting urban sustainability.

These startups are reshaping industries and addressing pressing issues like financial inclusion, cybersecurity, and environmental challenges. Below is a comparison of their key features:

These companies are setting South Africa up for a tech-driven future, solving real problems with practical solutions.

How Fintech is Transforming Credit and Financial Inclusion in …

1. Agrigistics: Smart Farming Solutions

Agrigistics is making waves in South African agriculture with its advanced farm operating system, which saw an impressive 400% growth in 2021. Agriculture plays a crucial role in South Africa, contributing 2.4% to the GDP and providing 5% of formal employment.

Originally designed with Android devices and RFID tags for tracking labor, the system has evolved significantly. It now supports more than 60 farms and manages over 4,000 workers, incorporating fingerprint and facial recognition for secure workforce management.

Here’s what sets the platform apart:

With its robust data repository, Agrigistics helps farmers analyze operations, choose the best crops, and manage resources efficiently – critical in a country where water conservation is a top priority.

2. Itakane Health: Digital Healthcare Access

Itakane Health is making strides in digital healthcare across South Africa with the help of advanced AI and real-time monitoring. Their Occupational Health Suite and Personalized Reproductive Health Platform use AI-powered predictive analytics to offer healthcare solutions nationwide.

Here’s how the platform is performing:

By combining remote diagnostics, real-time risk assessments, and predictive analytics, Itakane Health identifies potential health issues early, preventing them from escalating. This integrated system supports advanced home health checks while ensuring ongoing workplace health monitoring.

As Itakane Health reshapes digital healthcare, other tech innovators are also making their mark on South Africa’s growing technology landscape.

BATTALION Technologies is at the forefront of South Africa’s cybersecurity efforts, offering cloud-based DNS-layer security solutions designed to combat digital threats. Their services are tailored for small and medium businesses, which often lack the resources to effectively defend against cyber attacks.

Their DNS-layer security safeguards both devices and networks, while their automated threat detection system has proven invaluable. This is especially critical, as South African organizations faced an average of 19 cyber incidents in the past year.

“By integrating intelligence-driven security measures, companies can better protect their assets, customers, and reputation in an increasingly hostile digital landscape”, says Dmitry Berezin, Global Security Solutions Expert at Kaspersky.

BATTALION’s platform is built to address the rising wave of cyber threats, including a 34% increase in banking malware and a 55% rise in exploit attacks reported in 2024. Their focus on SMEs is crucial, as over half of these businesses face the risk of shutting down within six months after a cyber attack.

The company combines its advanced technology with continuous monitoring, automated remediation, and employee training. With 34.2% of South African users reporting encounters with web-based threats, BATTALION’s approach is a critical component in ensuring business continuity and safeguarding data in today’s challenging digital environment.

4. Dark Pools: AI-Powered Data Analysis

Dark Pools is making waves in South Africa’s secure digital landscape by tackling complex business data challenges with automated machine learning. After raising $250,000 in December 2021, the company has focused on creating advanced AI models tailored to a variety of industries.

Their platform is designed to process and analyze data in less than a second, with a standout ability to detect financial crimes. Using their Industry Business Ontology (IBO) architecture, businesses can customize the system to meet specific needs across sectors like financial services, government, retail, and telecommunications.

“Our automated machine learning solutions boost revenue, optimize operations, reduce risk, and personalize customer experiences across industries.” – Dark Pools AI

A Chief Risk Officer at a leading US bank shared, “Valuable risk insights that lead to millions in fraud savings”.

Dark Pools enhances accuracy by combining multiple AI models. Key features of their platform include:

• Real-time anomaly detection
• Fraud prevention and risk reduction
• Customer behavior analysis
• Process automation and optimization

With a small but skilled team of 11–50 employees, the company has developed a system that integrates data from various sources while maintaining strong security. This intelligence-driven automation appeals to businesses aiming for advanced data analysis and compliance with regulations.

Dark Pools delivers cutting-edge data analysis tools that enhance operational efficiency and decision-making for businesses.

Fintech Systems is reshaping digital payments in South Africa by blending traditional banking methods with modern digital solutions. South Africa generates 40% of Africa’s fintech revenue, and as of May 2023, 89% of its population used digital banking services. With digital payments projected to dominate by 2025 and the market expected to hit $27.96 billion by 2027, the platform’s features are designed to meet this growing demand:

• Mobile Banking Integration: Links directly to existing bank accounts.
• Micro-transaction Processing: Makes small business transactions affordable.
• Real-time Settlement: Enables instant fund transfers.
• Multi-currency Support: Handles international payments with ease.

By reducing transaction costs compared to traditional methods, Fintech Systems broadens financial access for underserved communities. This is crucial in a region like Sub-Saharan Africa, where 456 million adults remained underbanked in 2022.

To maintain its growth and reliability, Fintech Systems complies with the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act (2022), ensuring strong security measures and anti-money laundering (AML) protocols. This adherence to regulations supports the fintech sector’s anticipated annual growth rate of 16% from 2022 to 2027.

South Africa’s e-commerce market reached $4.065 billion in 2023, a 29% jump from the previous year. With payments accounting for 30% of the country’s fintech companies, Fintech Systems’ emphasis on mobile-friendly solutions and diverse payment options positions it to thrive in the expanding digital payments landscape. By staying ahead of trends, Fintech Systems is a key player in South Africa’s fintech transformation.

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Africa Slurry Pump Solutions (SPS) is reshaping South Africa’s mining industry with its HART slurry pumps, designed to handle abrasive and corrosive materials. Backed by a team with over 60 years of expertise in slurry pumping technology, SPS addresses mining challenges using advanced engineering and integrated smart technologies.

The HART pumps come equipped with IoT features for real-time performance tracking and predictive maintenance, enabling operators to monitor systems and address potential issues before they escalate. In one case, a mining operation reduced its energy use by 30% after adopting these pumps.

Here’s how these features benefit operations:

• Corrosion-resistant materials: These extend the pumps’ lifespan and cut down on maintenance needs.
• IoT systems: Real-time data improves efficiency and helps operators make informed decisions.
• Variable speed drives: These allow precise control, reducing waste and energy consumption.

“Founded to offer a trusted, alternative OEM in slurry pump technology with superior technical support at competitive prices, Africa Slurry Pump Solutions meets a critical market need.”

SPS offers a full range of services, including process audits, system design, and application engineering, to help mining operations improve slurry management and meet environmental standards. Designed with a focus on being Simple, Dependable, and Value-driven, HART pumps integrate seamlessly into existing systems, boosting overall performance.

7. Stitch: Open Banking Platform

Stitch is changing South Africa’s fintech landscape with its open banking platform, which links banks to digital services. Its all-in-one commerce solution allows businesses to handle both online and in-person payments through a single system, adhering to ISO 27001 and PCI DSS Level 1 standards. This setup enables businesses to securely connect to users’ accounts for seamless transactions.

One standout feature, Stitch’s LinkPay technology, uses account tokenization to enable one-click payments. This has delivered impressive results – one fintech company reported a 50% increase in conversion rates after adopting the pay-with-bank-account option. This feature aligns with Stitch’s broader goal of simplifying and securing payment processes.

Stitch is also tapping into South Africa’s growing crypto market, which includes 7.7 million users. By integrating digital currencies, the platform provides businesses with new opportunities to serve this audience.

“Crypto-currency adoption in South Africa has been one of the highest in the world. There’s a massive audience that would prefer to use their crypto to make payments. We’re excited to offer Stitch clients an opportunity to reach and serve this audience, without the need to take on direct volatility risk, thanks to our ‘Pay with crypto’ method.” – Junaid Dadan, Stitch president

Stitch’s growth metrics underscore its success:

• Payment Value Growth: 104% month-over-month
• Customer Growth: 44% month-over-month
• Linked Financial Accounts: 72% increase in Q4 2021

Several major companies, such as MultiChoice, MTN, The Foschini Group, and Standard Bank’s SnapScan, have already adopted Stitch’s solutions.

“I had a great sense of comfort when working with the Stitch team knowing they fully support our vision and our obsession with checkout experiences in our different channels.” – Sipho Tshabalala, Product Manager Online Platforms, MTN

Stitch is setting a new standard for secure and efficient payment solutions in South Africa’s fintech sector.

PayCurve is reshaping financial wellness in South African workplaces with its Earned Wage Access (EWA) platform. This solution gives employees early access to their earned wages, helping to ease financial burdens and reduce dependence on high-interest loans.

Here’s what the data shows so far:

• 24.8% drop in employee absenteeism
• 100% decrease in staff advance requests
• 20% average reduction in employee turnover

The platform uses algorithmic profiling to evaluate employees’ financial health and connects them with certified financial coaches. It’s accessible through multiple channels, including USSD for offline users, making it practical for a wide range of employees.

“PayCurve is committed to working as a champion of South African employees and a critical partner solving complex challenges for the employer. Our next-generation employee benefit uses algorithmic profiling and interventions to create a solution which is tailored to each individual’s circumstances.”
– Tamir Sacks, PayCurve CEO

With wage increases on the horizon, including a national minimum wage of R28.79 per hour in 2025, PayCurve is stepping in to fill pressing financial gaps. Its key features are already delivering results:

“My son was diagnosed with meningitis in February, but I was already in debt to loan sharks and couldn’t afford his medicine. Macsteel HR told me about PayCurve. Thanks to PayCurve, I was able to buy the medicine without taking on more debt. It’s the BEST THING THAT HAS HAPPENED TO ME THIS YEAR.”
– Lebohang Selepe, MACSTEEL

PayCurve works with partners like Old Mutual and Investec, offering flexible transaction options such as cash withdrawals, grocery vouchers, airtime/data purchases, and medical vouchers. With eight out of ten employees struggling to make ends meet, PayCurve’s approach – combining affordability checks with financial education – addresses the urgent need for workplace financial wellness.

9. Green Riders: Electric Transport Network

Green Riders is changing the game for last-mile delivery in South Africa with its Mach 4 e-bikes. Introduced in October 2024, these bikes boast a cargo capacity of 100 kg (220 lbs) and can travel over 130 km (81 miles) on a single charge.

Here’s what Green Riders has accomplished as of October 2023:

The company operates training centers in Richwood/Dunoon, Langa, Gugulethu, Nyanga, and Athlone. A cutting-edge IoT tracking system ensures 24/7 monitoring through a dedicated dashboard.

“Every time I see a Green Rider, I think: they’re off to earn”, says Craig Atkinson, founder of Green Riders. “We knew we could improve lives and decarbonize our communities.”

Looking ahead, Green Riders plans to expand in 2025 with a $42.9 million investment. This includes $14.3 million for training programs and $28.6 million for asset financing. Their goal? To create 50,000 jobs over the next five years while cutting carbon emissions.

Richard Clarke, the company’s Chairman, highlights the power of partnerships in achieving this vision:

“This support – from partners like Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator, YES South Africa, the Department of Economic Development and Tourism, and the IDC – will enable us to train unemployed youth as professional delivery riders, working with leaders like takealot.com and Uber.”

In November 2024, their Ride4Change event brought together over 500 participants. Research shows that if e-bikes replaced 11% of all vehicle trips, transport emissions could drop by about 7%. Green Riders is well-positioned to drive South Africa’s transition to cleaner urban transport.

The Compost Kitchen is making strides in tackling urban waste issues in South Africa. By using vermicomposting, they’ve found a way to turn household food waste into nutrient-rich soil. As of March 2025, they’re working with over 417 families in Johannesburg, collecting and processing food waste into high-quality compost.

Their main service, priced at R210 (about $11.50) per month, offers a hassle-free system: they pick up food waste and return 2 kg (4.4 lbs) of premium vermicompost every month. At the heart of their operation are Rocket Composter systems, which can process a variety of organic materials into compost within just 14 days. This quick turnaround supports their broader mission to address environmental concerns.

“In the face of climate change and increasing temperatures and water scarcity, reducing food waste also has a significant role to play in our transition to a low‑carbon society.” – Barbara Creecy, Minister of Forestry and Fisheries and Environmental Affairs

The Compost Kitchen isn’t just about waste management. They’re also improving soil quality by producing compost that enhances water retention in treated soils. On top of that, they’re educating communities through workshops and school programs to spread awareness about sustainable practices. Business Insider highlights the importance of their work:

“If we divert the organics away from the landfill, and compost them in an aerobic environment, the process only releases carbon dioxide which is much less potent than methane, and results in a valuable soil conditioner which is so important for the future of farming.”

Looking Ahead: South Africa’s Startup Future

South Africa’s startup scene is gearing up for a major leap forward, fueled by advancements that are reshaping the digital economy. AI-driven tools and eco-friendly technologies are taking center stage. Andrew Bourne, Zoho’s regional country manager, highlights this shift:

“As we approach 2025, businesses are increasingly leveraging technology to create more connected, resilient, and intelligent operations. From automation and AI-powered insights to enhanced customer experiences through unified platforms, technology is fuelling a wave of transformation.”

Several key sectors are showing strong growth patterns:

The economic outlook is a mix of opportunities and hurdles. While 115,000 new jobs are expected by 2025, unemployment could still reach 33.2%. This highlights a need for innovation. Khatija Haque, chief economist at Mastercard EEMEA, explains:

“South Africa’s economic outlook for 2025 underscores opportunities for recovery through easing inflation, steady growth in consumer spending, and improvements in energy and tourism. By fostering financial inclusion, workforce participation, and innovation, the economy can set a course toward sustainable progress.”

Local investors are stepping up to support early-stage startups. Traditional areas like fintech, agritech, and healthtech remain strong, while newer fields such as climate tech and edtech are gaining momentum. For example, PowerGen secured $50 million for renewable energy projects, and Naked raised $38 million for AI-powered insurance solutions.

Consumer spending is expected to grow by 1.9%, with inflation easing to 4.2%. Fintech innovations, like advanced digital wallets with specialized features, are gearing up to compete on a global scale. Bradd Bendall, national head of sales at BetterBond, underscores the importance of focusing on customer needs:

“Embracing innovation while keeping the customer at the heart of everything we do is the key to thriving in an evolving market. In 2025, we must not only adapt, but also lead the way in transforming the bond origination experience.”

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