he Brief:

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- Shekel simplifies finance and operations for Auto Dealers, offering a smarter way to launch and grow your car dealership, whether locally or virtually.

- CEO & Co-Founder: Sanmi Olukanmi

- CBO & Co-Founder: Benjamen Oladokun

- CTO: Valentine Mayaki

- Investors: Y Combinator (W23)

- History: Just Launched

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Shekel, a new company that aims to simplify financing and operations for car dealerships in Africa, has just launched. Founded by Benjamen, Sanmi, and Valentine, the company boasts over 15 years of experience in the mobility and technology sectors.

Shekel dealers have already seen a dramatic increase in sales, thanks to the company's affordable financing options that have allowed them to expand their inventory. The company has ambitious goals, aiming to build the largest auto dealership ecosystem in Africa and power $10 billion in sales by 2025.

‎‎Before launching Shekel, the founders established Eazypapers, a digital documentation platform and fleet management provider in Nigeria. The company's efficient, automated delivery system has helped drivers throughout the country quickly obtain their vehicle documents, and has processed over 100,000 transactions worth over $1,000,000 annually for customers including NBC/Coca Cola, UBER, GOKADA, and Cars45.

Shekel was created in response to the founders' extensive background in the mobility sector and their desire to address issues within the automotive ecosystem. While other companies focus on established auto dealerships, Shekel caters to the needs of all tiers of dealership entrepreneurs, positioning itself as the financial operating system for dealers and all service providers in the automotive market in Africa and other emerging markets.