Stillmark

Stillmark is a venture capital firm that invests in businesses tied to Bitcoin. Its founders are Erik Hersman, Phillip Walton and Janet Maingi, and the team draws on long experience in the African technology sector.

Services

• Venture investment: backing for companies that build on Bitcoin, positioned around the idea that mining can help disadvantaged communities.
• Energy-linked mining: its example is Gridless, a Bitcoin mining company that brings new sustainable power generation to rural communities in East Africa.
• Anchor demand for mini-grids: Gridless acts as the anchor customer for renewable mini-grid operators, giving them financing and reliable income so new sites can be built and run.

Customers and markets

The firm's stated interest is in rural and underserved communities in Africa, where new energy generation can be paired with mining operations.

Key facts

• Founders: Erik Hersman, Phillip Walton and Janet Maingi
• Focus region: East Africa
• Featured company: Gridless