Revolutionising finance in Francophone Africa through data intelligence
We're building inclusive financing solutions based on innovative, data-driven credit models. Our mission: to offer the 80% of the population excluded by traditional banks the financial services they deserve.
Our mission and vision
In Francophone Africa, traditional banks exclude nearly 80% of businesses and individuals. They continue to rely on outdated models: excessive collateral requirements and operations centred on physical branches.
Meanwhile, more than 400 million young people, digitally savvy and drivers of the continent's economic growth, lack access to financial services adapted to their needs. Small suppliers often wait for payments that drag on and see their working capital needs accumulate.
Finco exists to bridge this gap. We offer data-driven financing solutions designed to serve both businesses and individuals.
By digitising the trust chain and using buyer solvency as leverage, rather than supplier assets, we're building an inclusive financial ecosystem that accelerates Africa's economic transformation.
Our dedicated team
Meet a team of innovators and experts committed to transforming finance in Francophone Africa.
Hamet AGUEMON
Co-Founder & CEO
Wharton School graduate, former Goldman Sachs banker, and former Minister of Investments for Benin, Hamet Aguemon has over 25 years of experience structuring financing totaling more than $3 billion across sub-Saharan Africa.
Kezia CRAWFORD-COUSINS
Co-Founder & Chief Product Officer
With over 30 years of experience in technology and financial services, Kezia Crawford-Cousins is a recognized product innovator and leader. Former founder of Qualica Technologies and Verify Dynamics, and Senior Manager at Accenture, they combine expertise in designing and developing innovative fintech solutions.
Mahuna AKPLOGAN
Co-Founder & CTO
PhD in AI with over 20 years of experience, Mahuna Akplogan has led several AI-based technology platforms. Former CEO of a patient flow management solution and former Chief Technology and Scientific Officer at Smart Layers, he combines scientific expertise and technology leadership in service of innovation.
Nathaniel OGUNLEYE
Product Designer
An experienced product designer, Nathaniel Ogunleye has worked on the design and user experience of SaaS platforms, fintech solutions, and international digital products. Former Lead Product Designer at Diool and Product Designer at Hark, he contributed to the design of MVPs and interfaces that supported fundraising and startup growth.
Hymogène DOSSOU
Office Manager
A versatile professional, Hymogène Dossou ensures coordination of internal operations and smooth daily functioning at Finco. His role is central to supporting the team, optimizing processes, and ensuring an efficient and collaborative work environment.
Fortress ENEBE
Software Engineer
Software engineer specialized in frontend development, Fortress Enebe has worked for technology companies in Africa, the United States, and Latin America. Former Software Engineer at Smart Layers, he also taught Internet technologies and software engineering at the University of Ilorin in Nigeria. His expertise covers creating responsive interfaces and developing web and mobile applications.
Celina NDALA
Finance & Compliance Specialist
Specialist in finance and compliance, Célina Ndala ensures that Finco's operations comply with legal and regulatory standards. She helps establish transparent and secure practices to strengthen the platform's trust and reliability.
Moses OBUTE
Software Engineer
A passionate software engineer, Moses Obute designs and develops high-performance digital solutions for Finco. His expertise covers web and mobile application development, as well as systems optimization to ensure reliability and scalability.
Fadus SENOU
Customer Success Manager
As Customer Success Manager, Fadus Senou supports Finco's clients in the adoption and optimal use of our solutions. He ensures their satisfaction, quality support, and helps build lasting relationships based on trust.
Sigata Ange TIENDAGA
Legal Advisor
Legal advisor, Sigata Ange Tiendaga supports Finco in legal compliance and contractual structuring of its activities. He ensures operations are secure, protects the company's interests, and strengthens trust with partners.
Milestones and Achievements
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Opportunity identification and Finco project initiation
Early 2023: Exploration of market opportunities for Finco and initial development initiatives in West Africa.
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Initial investment
October 2023: Opportunities identified in mortgage financing and supply chain financing. Initial investment of €228K by founders.
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Product development and R&D launch
January 2024: Start of product development, technology research, and platform co-design.
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Strategic partnerships
March 2024: Completion of initial designs and technology agreements. Collaboration agreement with the departments of Benin's Ministry of Economy and Finance. Start of technology development and business process modeling.
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Entry into Benin market
January 2025: Launch of Finco in Benin with a supply chain financing offering. Banking Intermediary license obtained.
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Expansion and fundraising
February 2025: Filing of MFI license application. Onboarding of vehicle dealer partners. "Friends and family" funding round of €240K.
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Platform launch
August 2025: Finco Platform 1.0.0 goes live in Benin.
Our core values
The principles that guide everything we do as we transform finance across Francophone Africa.
Transparency
We believe in clear pricing, open communication, and honest relationships with every customer and partner.
Collaboration
Our flat and agile structure enables cross-functional teamwork that delivers better solutions faster than traditional hierarchies.
Responsiveness
We move at the speed our customers need, with 24-48 hour decisions replacing months of bureaucracy.
Customer-Centricity
Every product decision starts with customer experience - we succeed only when our customers thrive.
Fairness
Fair access to financing for all, with equitable terms that create value rather than extract it.
Innovation
We use data and technology to solve real problems, not to create complexity for its own sake.