The International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Proparco have announced a joint equity commitment of up to $50 million to Helios Sports and Entertainment Group (HSEG), a vehicle focused on advancing sports, media, and entertainment ventures throughout Africa.
The funding will be allocated to critical areas such as sports intellectual property, event management, venue development, retail operations, and hospitality services. HSEG aims to cultivate a dynamic ecosystem for African sports and entertainment, partnering with NBA Africa, The Malachite Group (Afro Nation), PFL Africa, and Zaria Group.
IFC is leading the round with a $30 million equity contribution, complemented by Proparco’s $20 million investment.
Makhtar Diop, IFC Managing Director, emphasized, “Sports and entertainment are rapidly growing sectors that benefit from strategic investment approaches. Our participation signals readiness for long-term capital in Africa’s creative industries.”
Proparco CEO Françoise Lombard added, “Investing in Africa’s sports and entertainment ecosystem unlocks talent, economic growth, and job creation for young Africans. Our partnership with IFC and Helios will foster sustainable sector expansion.”
Tope Lawani, Managing Partner at HSEG, noted, “Support from globally respected institutions like IFC and Proparco validates our mission. Africa’s creative potential is immense, and HSEG is positioned to drive meaningful impact and economic value.”
