Lagos-based food delivery startup Chowdeck has successfully raised $9 million in a Series A funding round, aiming to enhance its quick commerce strategy and broaden its reach across Nigeria and Ghana. The funding round was led by Novastar Ventures, with significant contributions from Y Combinator, AAIC Investment, Rebel Fund, GFR Fund, Kaleo, HoaQ, and others.
Founded in October 2021 by Femi Aluko, Olumide Ojo, and Lanre Yusuf, Chowdeck has rapidly expanded its operations. Currently, the company operates in 11 cities across Nigeria and Ghana, serving a customer base of 1.5 million with a fleet exceeding 20,000 riders. The company’s logistics system boasts an average delivery time of 30 minutes per order, with over half of deliveries in densely populated areas being completed by bicycle.
The newly acquired funds are earmarked for the rollout of a quick commerce model, focusing on ultra-fast delivery services supported by a network of dark stores and hyperlocal logistics hubs. Chowdeck plans to establish 40 dark stores by the end of 2025 and aims to increase this number to 500 by the end of 2026, with a target of launching two to three new stores each week.
Chowdeck’s growth trajectory has been impressive. In 2024, the value of meals delivered through the platform increased more than sixfold compared to the previous year. By mid-2025, the company had already surpassed its total delivery value for 2024. This rapid growth underscores Chowdeck’s ability to navigate the complexities of local markets and build trust with its customers.
The company’s success comes at a time when several prominent players have exited or scaled back their operations in the African market. Chowdeck’s focus on delivering local meals, despite the operational challenges, has set it apart in the competitive food delivery landscape.
In addition to its delivery services, Chowdeck is also building a software layer into its business. In June, the company acquired Mira, a point-of-sale platform for African food and hospitality businesses. This acquisition is expected to optimize operations and position Chowdeck as both a logistics and vertical SaaS provider for restaurants.
The lead investor, Novastar Ventures, described Chowdeck as building the future of logistics for African cities with a sustainability-first approach and strong execution. This investment reflects confidence in Chowdeck’s vision to become Africa’s leading super app for food and essentials, as more Africans shift to ordering online for the first time.
