Birimian Ventures

Birimian Ventures is a long-term investment company dedicated to championing African heritage luxury and premium brands by providing patient capital, institutional support, strategic advice, and operational excellence. The firm focuses on sectors such as fashion, beauty and cosmetics, design, tourism, hospitality, and agro-processing, aiming to accelerate the emergence of African creators and the diaspora on the international stage. Birimian Ventures offers a 360-degree panel of services to accelerate brand expansion strategies, including financing, brand consultation, strengthening production and distribution capacities, and implementing sustainable growth plans. The firm has partnered with Orange Bank Africa to launch the 'Access to Finance' program, which has successfully financed 25 companies, 90% of which are led by women entrepreneurs, demonstrating a commitment to fostering access to finance for creative entrepreneurs in Africa. Birimian Ventures is led by a team of seasoned professionals, including Founder and CEO Laureen Kouassi-Olsson, who has a background in African private equity and financial services, and Chief Financial Officer Michelle Kathryn Essomé, former CEO of the African Private Equity and Venture Capital Association. The firm's approach combines investment, mentoring, and operational support to help brands achieve their true potential and gain international exposure, contributing to a more diverse, creative, and modern landscape in the luxury fashion industry.