Benaiah Wepundi, Founder, Get Payd
In Africa’s ever-growing entrepreneurial landscape, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of the economy. Yet, many struggle with a fundamental challenge: delayed payments. That is where Get Payd, a fintech startup founded by Benaiah Wepundi, steps in, aiming to transform how SMEs manage their payments, allowing them to focus on what matters most—growing their businesses.
During a candid interview for the Mozilla Africa Mradi Innovation Acceleration Programme, Benaiah shared his journey of launching Get Payd, the obstacles he faced, and how training from @iBizAfrica Incubation Centre gave him the tools to grow his vision.
Get Payd: Born from Real-Life Struggles
The concept of Get Payd is rooted in the daily challenges faced by many African entrepreneurs. Late payments can severely disrupt cash flow, making it hard for small businesses to survive. Benaiah recognized this from firsthand experience working closely with SMEs in Kenya. “When I saw how hard it was for business owners to get paid on time, I knew something needed to change,” Benaiah recalls.
Get Payd offers a platform where small business owners can track, manage, and receive payments in real-time. This means less stress over pending payments and more focus on business growth. In fact, according to a World Bank research, SMEs in Africa face a funding gap of over $330 billion, largely due to cash flow issues caused by late payments. Platforms like Get Payd can help bridge that gap.
The Impact of the Mozilla Africa Mradi Programme
While Get Payd was already addressing a significant issue, joining the Mozilla Africa Mradi Innovation Acceleration Programme took the startup to new heights. The programme focuses on empowering African innovators, providing mentorship and exposure that help them scale globally.
“The Mozilla Mradi Programme gave me access to a network of experienced entrepreneurs and technologists,” says Benaiah. “It was eye-opening to see how fintech is evolving, not just in Kenya but globally. The support and mentorship I received helped refine Get Payd’s business model.”
Mozilla Mradi’s focus on open innovation, transparency, and privacy was crucial for Benaiah. “As we grow, I want to ensure that Get Payd respects users’ data and remains transparent in how we handle financial transactions,” he added. Mozilla’s commitment to these values aligns with the push for responsible tech in Africa.
The Role of @iBizAfrica in Driving Growth
Another vital part of Get Payd’s journey has been the training and support received at @iBizAfrica Incubation Centre at Strathmore University. As a hub for innovation, @iBizAfrica helps entrepreneurs like Benaiah develop the skills they need to succeed. The center offers programmes focused on everything from digital marketing to business leadership, which proved essential in scaling Get Payd.
“The practical training on business strategy and leadership was invaluable,” Benaiah emphasizes. “Before @iBizAfrica, I was just focused on the tech side of things. They helped me realize that scaling a business takes more than just a good product; it is about understanding the market, building the right team, and leading with vision.”
With a clearer business strategy and a stronger understanding of the fintech space, Get Payd has now expanded its services to reach more SMEs in Kenya. Digital solutions like this can significantly impact Africa’s fintech ecosystem, where mobile money and digital finance are rapidly growing (GSMA Mobile Economy Report).
The Future of Fintech Innovation in Africa
Looking ahead, Benaiah envisions Get Payd becoming a cornerstone for SMEs not just in Kenya but across Africa. As digital finance continues to rise, platforms like his will become essential in ensuring SMEs have access to real-time payment solutions. And with the support of programmes like Mozilla Africa Mradi and @iBizAfrica, he is well on his way.
“Fintech in Africa is still young, but there is so much potential,” Benaiah says, with optimism. “We have seen how digital payments have revolutionized industries, and I believe the next big wave will come from solutions tailored specifically for SMEs. At Get Payd, we are just getting started.”
With innovators like Benaiah driving change, the future of African fintech looks bright. By supporting local businesses and providing them with the tools they need to thrive, startups like Get Payd are setting the stage for a more inclusive and prosperous future for African entrepreneurs.