Debt Financing Design European Financial Services Food Infrastructure Investment Strategy Support Technology

Investment & Fund Management

backed by the European Investment

Full Credential Description

Fazt African Foods, founded by Fabrice Siheu in Belgium, faced a unique challenge in the food and beverage industry: the lack of delivery options for authentic African cuisine. Despite a growing interest in diverse culinary experiences, African food was underrepresented in the delivery market, with many potential customers seeking alternatives to traditional sandwich and pizza lunches. Fabrice recognized this gap and aimed to introduce African cuisine to a broader audience, particularly those unfamiliar with it.

To address this niche issue, Fabrice launched a pilot test in 2019 to gauge market demand for his traiteur and delivery services. The pilot revealed a strong appetite for authentic African dishes, with customers expressing a desire for high-quality, clean, and safe food options. To facilitate this venture, Fabrice secured an EU-guaranteed loan from microStart, backed by the European Investment Fund (EIF) under the Investment Plan for Europe. This financial support enabled him to test his concept in mixed kitchens successfully.

The results of the pilot were promising, leading Fabrice to finalize his business plan for establishing a fixed location and equipping his own kitchen. The tailored solution provided by the EIF not only helped validate his business idea but also positioned him for future growth in the market, setting the stage for a successful launch of Fazt African Foods.