500 Global, a prominent venture capital firm with a multi-billion dollar portfolio, has announced Mareme Dieng’s promotion to Partner, entrusting her with the responsibility to lead its Africa-focused investment strategy. Dieng, based in Nairobi, Kenya, steps into this role with the mission to deepen 500 Global’s commitment to fostering African entrepreneurship and innovation. This promotion underscores the firm’s strategic direction to scale its presence and impact across the continent’s rapidly evolving tech ecosystem.
Dieng, a native of Senegal, brings a rich professional history of venture-building expertise and a nuanced understanding of African markets to her new role. “As a Senegalese woman who has studied, lived, and worked abroad, my mission is to reinvest in Africa by creating growth opportunities,” Dieng remarked. “I envision a future where young Africans can access quality education and economic opportunities at home without needing to leave as early as I did.”
Since joining 500 Global in 2021, Dieng has been instrumental in advancing the firm’s programs and partnerships aimed at nurturing Africa’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through her work, she has established a compelling track record of identifying promising early-stage companies and spearheading initiatives that support inclusive economic growth. With over a decade of experience, Dieng’s approach aligns well with 500 Global’s long-term strategy for scaling investment in the continent’s tech sector.
Fred Swaniker, Founder of the African Leadership Group, lauded Dieng’s promotion as a pivotal move for African venture capital. “Mareme embodies the future of Africa — young, globally-minded, and dynamic,” Swaniker commented. “Her unique perspective will help connect African entrepreneurs to the resources they need to build transformative ventures.”
Since its first African investment in 2011, 500 Global has steadily expanded its footprint in the region. To date, the firm has invested in over 100 African startups, 35% of which are female-founded. 500 Global’s regional efforts have been bolstered by collaborations with governmental and international bodies, including Egypt’s Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA) and Germany’s Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). These partnerships have focused on developing entrepreneurial ecosystems, investor education, and accelerator programs across Africa.
Courtney Powell, COO and Managing Partner of 500 Global, noted Dieng’s appointment as a continuation of the firm’s mission to drive sustainable economic development across emerging markets. “Africa is a thriving hub of opportunity,” Powell stated. “With Mareme’s insights and experience, we’re eager to address challenges such as financial inclusion, scalable education, food security, and climate resilience. Her leadership will be pivotal as we work to unlock Africa’s full potential.”
Before joining 500 Global, Dieng served as Head of International Partnerships at Draper University and as an Investor Associate at Draper University Ventures, where she supported founders from emerging markets. She has earned accolades for her work, including recognition as one of Forbes Afrique’s “30 Under 30” and a position on the VC Committee of the African Venture Capital Association.
Tim Draper, Founder of Draper Associates, commended Dieng’s track record. “Mareme stood out among her peers at Draper and has shown an unwavering commitment to ecosystem development,” Draper said. “Her passion and expertise make her exceptionally well-suited for this role.”
500 Global’s Africa team will continue to support early-stage African startups through funding, mentorship, and access to global networks. As Dieng takes on this leadership position, her objective is to foster cross-continental collaboration, empowering African entrepreneurs to scale their innovations within Africa and beyond.
500 Global is a leading multi-stage venture capital firm with $2.2 billion in assets under management, committed to advancing technology and economic growth across emerging markets. To date, the firm has backed more than 5,000 founders and 3,900 companies across 80+ countries, including over 35 companies now valued at over $1 billion. 500 Global’s team, based in 30+ countries, includes professionals with extensive experience in venture capital, operations, and entrepreneurship.