(Ecofin Agency) - In order to support local entrepreneurship and development of innovating technologies, WeChat Africa plans to invest about $3.48 million in various tech start-ups. The most promising ones will be identified by WeChat Africa through and application-selection process, then they will be rapidly introduced to the market through the WeChat platform.

WeChat Africa put the Batsone firm in charge of obtaining and coordinating the initial investment opportunities for African tech start-ups. Brett Loubser, CEO of WeChat Africa said: “our fund aims to provide financial support to businesses so they can effectively find a spot on the WeChat platform. This includes communication and integration tactics across the Naspers’ stable and other suited channels”. Applications for selection will open on Batsone’s website in mid-january 2016. Selection will be based on online applications combined with a number of practical workshops.

Beyond identifying potential partners for WeChat in Africa, Batsone will also offer selected start-ups strategic counseling to efficiently help them during their growth stage and market entry process.