Helios secured 50 million in equity funding from IFC and Proparco to boost Africas sports and entertainment sector, a segment expected to surpass 20 billion by 2035.
The investment targets sports IP, infrastructure, retail, and events, aiming to create jobs and unlock economic opportunities across Africas creative industries.
Helios partners with global brands like NBA Africa and Afro Nation to build a dynamic platform spanning media rights, live experiences, and talent development.
Helios Investment Partners, a UK-based private equity firm led by Nigerian businessman Temitope Lawani, has secured a 50 million equity commitment from the International Finance Corporation IFC and Proparco. The funding will flow through Helios Sports and Entertainment Group, the firms dedicated investment arm for sports, media, and entertainment across Africa, to accelerate the sectors growth and unlock new economic opportunities.
Investment underscores faith in creative industries economic potentialDisclosed on Wednesday , the transaction marks one of the largest dedicated financings to date for Africas creative economy, an underfunded sector that analysts expect to surpass 20 billion in annual value by 2035. Under the terms of the deal, IFC will deploy up to 30 million in equity from its own account, while Proparco, a subsidiary of the Agence Franaise de Dveloppement Group, has committed up to 20 million.
The capital infusion aims to catalyze growth across key segmentsincluding sports intellectual property, infrastructure, event management, retail, and hospitalitywhere rising consumer demand, a youthful population, and the globalization of African content are unlocking new commercial opportunities.
Helios targets transformative partnerships with major global brandsHelios Sports and Entertainments platform approach aspires to build a dynamic ecosystem spanning live events, media rights, and experiential venues, positioning it at the forefront of a region where structural investment in talent, infrastructure, and distribution has lagged demand.
At Helios Sports and Entertainment Group, we are constantly presented with attractive opportunities driven by Africas richness of talent and increasingly sought-after content, said Helios Sports and Entertainment Groups Managing Partner Tope Lawani. We are excited to capitalize on HSEG's unique market position to create economic value and genuine impact.