Lagos-based food delivery startup Chowdeck has raised $9 million in Series A funding to launch a quick commerce strategy and expand operations in Nigeria and Ghana.

The equity round was led by Novastar Ventures, with participation from Y Combinator, AAIC Investment, Rebel Fund, GFR Fund, Kaleo, HoaQ and others. Founded in 2021 by Femi Aluko, Olumide Ojo, and Lanre Yusuf, Chowdeck has remained profitable in a sector where global players have struggled.

Chowdeck operates in 11 cities across the two countries, serving 1.5 million customers through a network of more than 20,000 riders. Its logistics system averages 30-minute deliveries, with over half of trips in dense areas made by bicycle.

In 2024, the value of meals delivered via Chowdeck rose more than sixfold year-on-year. By mid-2025, the company had already surpassed its 2024 total. The new funds will support the rollout of ultra-fast delivery using dark stores and hyperlocal hubs, with plans for 40 stores by year-end and 500 by 2026.

Chowdeck expanded to Ghana in May, reaching 1,000 daily orders within three months without paid advertising. It aims to grow that figure to 5,000 daily orders by September 2025. The company also recently acquired point-of-sale provider Mira to improve operational efficiency for restaurants.

CEO Aluko said Chowdeck targets profitability within weeks of entering new markets. “This funding will supercharge our growth plans, enabling us to expand into more cities, reduce delivery times, scale our grocery footprint, and attract top talent,” he said.

Novastar Ventures partner Brian Waswani Odhiambo described Chowdeck as “building the future of logistics for African cities,” citing its local insight, sustainability focus and execution capability.

The raise marks a rare win for local players in a market where Jumia, Glovo, Bolt Food and Yango have scaled back operations in parts of Africa.