--- title: "iGravity and Seedstars Join Forces to Manage the SECO Startup Fund" url: https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/newsroom/igravity-and-seedstars-join-forces-manage-seco-startup-fund/ --- 1. [HOME](/) 2. [RESOURCES](/content-hub/) 3. [NEWSROOM](/content-hub/newsroom/) 4. IGRAVITY AND SEEDSTARS JOIN FORCES TO MANAGE THE SECO STARTUP FUND ![iGravity and Seedstars Join Forces to Manage the SECO Startup Fund](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/article310125_header.max-1500x500.png) GLOBAL • OTHER ## iGravity and Seedstars Join Forces to Manage the SECO Startup Fund JANUARY 31, 2025 Seedstars **Switzerland, January 31st, 2025** — iGravity and Seedstars are proud to announce their engagement as managers of the SECO Startup Fund (SSF), marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the initiative. The SECO Startup Fund, originally managed by FinanceContact, is a long-standing credit instrument of the Swiss Confederation, supporting innovative and impactful businesses in partner countries of the Swiss development cooperation. #### WRITTEN BY ![None](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/seedstars-black.max-376x376.png) Seedstars Global [CONTACT US](/contact-us/) The partnership between iGravity and Seedstars aims to continue and expand SSF’s mission of empowering entrepreneurs in emerging economies. iGravity’s expertise in impact investment and innovative finance solutions will ensure solid and sustainable investment strategies, while Seedstars’ deep network and focus on fostering entrepreneurship in emerging economies will amplify the vehicle’s reach and impact. With a combined expertise in impact-driven investment and entrepreneurial ecosystem development, the new management brings a fresh perspective and renewed energy to the initiative. Head Private Sector Development at SECO, Christian Braendli, commented: _“SECO is grateful to Finance Contact for their exceptional work and dedication over the past decade. We are confident that iGravity and Seedstars will build upon this strong foundation to drive innovation and growth of the SECO Start-up Fund. We look forward to a successful cooperation with our new partners.”_ iGravity Founder and CEO, Patrick Elmer, commented: _“The SECO Startup Fund has a legacy of fostering impactful ventures in developing markets. Together with Seedstars, we are committed to enhancing this legacy by supporting more entrepreneurs who drive sustainable economic growth.”_ Seedstars Founder and CEO, Alisée de Tonnac, added: _“This mandate aligns perfectly with our mission to impact lives in emerging markets through entrepreneurship. We are excited to collaborate with iGravity to create even greater opportunities for startups around the world.”_ Further details about the partnership’s vision and future initiatives will be shared in the coming months. For now, the focus is on ensuring a smooth transition and setting the foundation for continued success. For more information about the SECO Startup Fund, visit [linkedin](https://www.linkedin.com/company/seco-start-up-fund/) and [website](https://secostartupfund.ch/en/). **ABOUT iGRAVITY** iGravity is an advisory and investment management firm specialized in impact investments and innovative finance solutions. Founded in 2017, iGravity is committed to fostering sustainable, equitable progress through finance and entrepreneurship. The firm partners with public, philanthropic, and financial investors to design financing facilities, support high-impact enterprises, and create unique investment opportunities that align financial returns with meaningful social and environmental impact **ABOUT SEEDSTARS** Seedstars is a global organization, founded in 2012, with a mission to impact people’s lives in emerging markets by backing entrepreneurs with know-how, community, and capital. It is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs thrive through community building, capacity development, and access to capital. With a strong presence across emerging markets globally, Seedstars has been a pioneer in fostering entrepreneurial ecosystems for over a decade. **CONTACTS ** Daniela Moreno daniela@seedstars.com NEWS / BLOGPOST GLOBAL ## More like this [ ![None](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/istanbul.max-320x550.jpg) MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA • #### Turkey's founders move from phones to factories Aug. 03, 2026 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/beyond-valley/turkeys-founders-move-from-phones-to-factories/) [ ![None](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/istanbul.max-320x550.jpg) MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA • #### Building a Resilient Tech Ecosystem in the West Bank and Gaza Jun. 09, 2026 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/beyond-valley/building-resilient-tech-ecosystem-west-bank-and-gaza/) [ ![Why Moldova’s best startups look global from day one](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Why_Moldovas_best_startups_look_global_from_.max-320x550.png) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### Why Moldova’s best startups look global from day one Some Moldovan startups register a company in Estonia before they ever talk to an investor. Mar. 23, 2026 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/why-moldovas-best-startups-look-global-from-day-one/) [ ![Building under pressure: how Palestine’s startup ecosystem is learning to scale](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Building_under_pressure_-_how_Palestines_sta.max-320x550.jpg) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### Building under pressure: how Palestine’s startup ecosystem is learning to scale Founders in the West Bank and Gaza build in fragments. Power cuts, travel limits, and blocked payments are part of the job. Out of that reality, a distinct tech scene has taken shape that works lean, tests quickly, and looks outward for growth. Nov. 12, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/palestine-startup-ecosystem-learning-how-to-scale/) [ ![How Morocco is turning steady signals into a real startup story](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/How_Morocco_is_turning_steady_signals_into_a.max-320x550.jpg) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### How Morocco is turning steady signals into a real startup story Morocco’s startup ecosystem is finding its rhythm. After a quiet 2023, founders and investors regained momentum. Startups in the country raised around 70 million USD across 40 deals in 2024 - almost double the previous year, according to Africa: The Oct. 12, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/how-morocco-turning-steady-signals-into-real-startup-story/) [ ![These 12 Jordanian startups are solving problems across the Arab world](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/These_12_Jordanian_startups_are_solving_prob.max-320x550.jpg) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### These 12 Jordanian startups are solving problems across the Arab world Jordan has positioned itself as one of the Middle East's most efficient startup ecosystems. While the Kingdom represents just 3% of the region's population, Jordanian entrepreneurs have achieved remarkable influence across the Middle East. Oct. 03, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/12-jordanian-startups-solving-problems-across-arab-world/) [ ![Six Georgian startups you should know about](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Six_Georgian_startups_you_should_know_about_.max-320x550.jpg) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### Six Georgian startups you should know about Georgia’s tech ecosystem has been growing quietly beyond its early fintech reputation. The small Caucasus nation has built one of Europe’s most business-friendly environments, and it is starting to show. Sep. 17, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/six-georgian-startups-you-should-know-about/) [ ![Azerbaijan's practical approach to building a tech hub](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Azerbaijan_practical_approach_to_building_a_.max-320x550.jpg) ASIA • #### Azerbaijan's practical approach to building a tech hub While Silicon Valley startups chase the next consumer app, Azerbaijan's entrepreneurs are solving a more fundamental problem: building the digital backbone that businesses across the region desperately need to operate. Sep. 04, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/azerbaijan-practical-approach-building-tech-hub/) [ ![Lebanon's startup scene is built for global markets](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Lebanon-startup-scene-is-built-for-global-ma.max-320x550.jpg) ASIA • #### Lebanon's startup scene is built for global markets Lebanon's startup ecosystem operates on a fundamentally different premise than most tech hubs. While entrepreneurs in larger markets might spend years perfecting their domestic strategy, Lebanese founders incorporate abroad and sketch international e Aug. 04, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/lebanon-startup-scene-built-for-global-markets/) [ ![How Armenia built an ecosystem bigger than its borders](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/How_Armenia_built_an_ecosystem_bigger_than_i.max-320x550.jpg) ASIA • #### How Armenia built an ecosystem bigger than its borders Armenia has quietly built one of the region's most sophisticated startup ecosystems. The country's tech diaspora, with deep Silicon Valley roots, gives it an edge that neighboring countries can't easily replicate. Aug. 01, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/armenia-built-an-ecosystem-bigger-than-its-borders/) [ ![How Mongolia's landlocked startup scene is thriving](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Seedstars_Website_-_Life_content_-_Thumbnail.max-320x550.jpg) ASIA • #### How Mongolia's landlocked startup scene is thriving When you think of Mongolia, startup innovation probably isn't the first thing that comes to mind. But this landlocked country is quietly building something unexpected: a tech ecosystem that's learned to turn geographic constraints into creative advan Jul. 29, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/mongolia-landlocked-startup-scene-thriving/) [ ![Innovation under pressure: How Ukraine’s tech sector defies odds](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/thumbnailukraineblogpost210525.max-320x550.png) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### Innovation under pressure: How Ukraine’s tech sector defies odds Ukraine's tech sector thrives amid challenges, developing resilient solutions that work in any conditions. See how innovation under pressure creates technology the world needs. May. 21, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/innovation-under-pressure-how-ukraines-tech-sector-defies-odds/) [ ![How agricultural innovation is shaping up in Eastern Europe and Central Asia](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/020525THUMBNAIL.max-320x550.png) GLOBAL • AGRICULTURE #### How agricultural innovation is shaping up in Eastern Europe and Central Asia Agritech startups in Eastern Europe and Central Asia are transforming farming with local innovations tackling drought, resource limits, and climate change. May. 02, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/how-agricultural-innovation-shaping-eastern-europe-and-central-asia/) [ ![How Egypt is moving from hypergrowth to sustainable innovation](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/lifearticle0404thumbnailphoto.max-320x550.png) MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA • #### How Egypt is moving from hypergrowth to sustainable innovation Egypt's startup ecosystem shifts from hypergrowth to sustainable innovation, with founders focusing on profitability and efficiency amid changing investment standards and government support. Apr. 04, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/how-egypt-is-moving-from-hypergrowth-to-sustainable-nnovation/) [ ![Círculo de Crédito anuncia nueva alianza con Seedstars para fortalecer su brazo de Corporate Venture](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/thumb240325.max-320x550.png) LATIN AMERICA • TECHNOLOGY #### Círculo de Crédito anuncia nueva alianza con Seedstars para fortalecer su brazo de Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) Círculo de Crédito, sociedad de información crediticia líder en México, está impulsando la innovación tecnológica a través de su brazo de Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) para promover la innovación y el desarrollo tecnológico en el ecosistema de conf Mar. 24, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/newsroom/c%C3%ADrculo-de-cr%C3%A9dito-anuncia-nueva-alianza-con-seedstars-para-fortalecer-su-brazo-de-corporate-venture-capital-cvc/) [ ![Meet the startups modernizing Kazakhstan's tech lands](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/THUMBNAILLIFE0703ARTICLELIFE.max-320x550.png) ASIA • #### Meet the startups modernizing Kazakhstan's tech lands Kazakhstan's tech startups are revolutionizing infrastructure and services across the vast country, creating innovative solutions to modernize essential systems despite formidable geographic challenges. Mar. 07, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/meet-startups-modernizing-kazakhstans-tech-lands/) [ ![Tajikistan is building its digital foundations](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/lifearticlethumb270225tajikisatn.max-320x550.png) ASIA • #### Tajikistan is building its digital foundations Tajikistan's entrepreneurs focus on building essential digital infrastructure, transforming access to services in a country where internet reaches just less than half of the population. Feb. 27, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/tajikistan-is-building-its-digital-foundations/) [ ![How Belarusian tech talent is reshaping Eastern Europe's digital future](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/100225lifebelarusarticle.max-320x550.png) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### How Belarusian tech talent is reshaping Eastern Europe's digital future Discover how Belarusian tech companies' migration to Poland and Lithuania is creating new innovation hubs and transforming Eastern Europe's digital landscape with global ambitions. Feb. 10, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/how-belarusian-tech-talent-reshaping-eastern-europes-digital-future/) [ ![How Moldova is building its tech hub](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/thumbnailmoldova070225.max-320x550.png) CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE • #### How Moldova is building its tech hub Moldova emerges as a pragmatic tech hub, with local startups solving real-world problems through practical innovation. Learn how its strategic location and incentives are attracting tech talent. Feb. 07, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/cares/how-moldova-building-its-tech-hub/) [ ![Beyond the Valley](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/lifearticle050225thumb.max-320x550.png) GLOBAL • #### Beyond the Valley Discover the hidden tech ecosystems of Eastern Europe and Central Asia, where entrepreneurs are building crucial solutions that transform how millions live and work. Feb. 05, 2025 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/life/beyond-valley/) [ ![Africa Investment Forum 2024 Market Days: Seedstars Africa Ventures I announces $42m first close](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/article6122thumbnail.max-320x550.png) GLOBAL • #### Africa Investment Forum 2024 Market Days: Seedstars Africa Ventures I announces $42m first close Seedstars Africa Ventures I, a venture capital fund making early-stage investments in highly scalable start-ups in Africa, has achieved a first close of $42 million, with participation from the African Development Bank, EIB Global with the support of Dec. 06, 2024 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/newsroom/africa-investment-forum-2024-market-days-seedstars-africa-ventures-i-announces-42m-first-close/) [ ![Seedstars and Visa Foundation announce first cohort of SEED Inclusivity Program supporting entrepren](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/51224_thumbnailphoto.max-320x550.png) GLOBAL • #### Seedstars and Visa Foundation announce first cohort of SEED Inclusivity Program supporting entrepreneurs with disabilities in Asia Seedstars and Visa Foundation select 15 innovative disability-focused startups across Asia for SEED Inclusivity Program, supporting entrepreneurs with disabilities and assistive tech. Dec. 05, 2024 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/newsroom/seedstars-and-visa-foundation-announce-first-cohort-seed-inclusivity-program-supporting-entrepreneurs-disabilities-asia/) [ ![Financial Solutions for Migrant Women Report 2024](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/report20241911seedstrarsthumbnail.max-320x550.png) GLOBAL • OTHER #### Financial Solutions for Migrant Women Report 2024 With nearly half of the world's 280 million international migrants being women, their financial inclusion represents both a crucial development challenge and a significant market opportunity Nov. 19, 2024 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/insights/financial-solutions-for-migran-women-report-2024/) [ ![Seedstars & Redwood Ventures Announce Strategic Partnership to Accelerate Innovation in Latin Americ](https://seedstars-com.s3.amazonaws.com/images/141024.max-320x550.png) GLOBAL • #### Seedstars & Redwood Ventures Announce Strategic Partnership to Accelerate Innovation in Latin America Geneva, Switzerland. October 14, 2024 – Seedstars, a global organization dedicated to supporting startups and entrepreneurs in emerging markets, and Redwood Ventures, a leading venture capital firm in Mexico, today announced a strategic partnership a Oct. 14, 2024 ](https://www.seedstars.com/content-hub/newsroom/seedstars-redwood-ventures-announce-strategic-partnership-accelerate-innovation-latin-america/) --- ## Sitemap - [Sitemap](https://www.seedstars.com/sitemap.md): every public page on this site - [llms.txt](https://www.seedstars.com/llms.txt): what Seedstars does and where to start