How the Ugandan Diaspora Can Invest in Startups and Venture Capital | An Expert Conversation

In this Uganda Global Forum conversation moderated by Dr. Dennis Aguma, two guest speakers, Michael Serwadda, Managing Partner at Velocity Digital, and John Brittell, General Partner at 6 Figure Ventures, unpack the realities of startup financing, venture capital, and diaspora investment in Uganda and other emerging markets.

The discussion examines why financing gaps persist even when capital is available, including mismatches in business stage, investment terms, governance, and understanding of debt versus equity. The panel also distinguishes between a good business and a venture-backable business, and explores why Uganda continues to attract less venture capital than some peer African markets.

The conversation also covers founder credibility, regional and global scale, legal and tax risks, investor protections, the role of government as a catalyst, and lessons from international investment models.

For diaspora investors, the panel offers practical guidance: learn the market, conduct proper due diligence, invest alongside experienced syndicates, diversify risk, and bring more than money by contributing networks, expertise, and market access.