Aions Ventures

USKO

Secure, Affordable Escrow for Seamless Transactions

In today’s fast-paced business environment, trust between buyers and sellers is crucial. Usko is a groundbreaking fintech solution that provides unmatched security and peace of mind for your transactions, no matter how complex. Whether you're navigating private credit deals or handling large-scale purchases, Usko ensures that payments between multiple parties remain secure until the agreed-upon conditions are met.

How Does Usko Work?

Usko utilises advanced blockchain technology to power a secure escrow system. When entering into an agreement, users are assigned individual wallets where funds are held safely. A smart contract is drawn up to govern the transaction, outlining the specific triggers that will release the funds. Once these predefined conditions are met—whether it’s delivery confirmation, project milestones, or a signed agreement—the funds move automatically between wallets, providing a seamless, hands-off experience for all involved.

What Makes Usko Different?​

Many escrow services in South Africa charge high fees that can eat into your profits. Usko offers the same level of security and confidence at a fraction of the cost. We believe in making escrow services accessible to businesses of all sizes by offering competitive, transparent pricing.

Is Usko Suitable for My Business?

Usko is particularly useful in private credit deals, but it’s flexible enough to handle any transaction where two or more parties need to ensure secure payments. Whether you’re dealing with a large purchase, a service contract, or an investment, Usko guarantees both buyer and supplier confidence throughout the process. Our blockchain-based system is ideal for businesses looking to avoid the risk and uncertainty of traditional payment systems.

How Secure is Usko?​

Security is the foundation of Usko. Blockchain technology ensures that all transactions are fully transparent and immutable, meaning they cannot be altered or tampered with. Each smart contract is stored securely on the blockchain, giving both parties complete control and trust that payments will only be released when all conditions are fulfilled.

Why Choose Usko Over Traditional Escrow Services? ​

Traditional escrow services often come with high fees and cumbersome processes. With Usko, you benefit from a streamlined, cost-effective solution that automates payments based on real-world triggers. Plus, the security provided by blockchain technology ensures that funds are handled with the utmost transparency, giving you and your partners complete peace of mind without breaking the bank.

How Does Usko Work?

Usko utilises advanced blockchain technology to power a secure escrow system. When entering into an agreement, users are assigned individual wallets where funds are held safely. A smart contract is drawn up to govern the transaction, outlining the specific triggers that will release the funds. Once these predefined conditions are met—whether it’s delivery confirmation, project milestones, or a signed agreement—the funds move automatically between wallets, providing a seamless, hands-off experience for all involved.

What Makes Usko Different?​

Many escrow services in South Africa charge high fees that can eat into your profits. Usko offers the same level of security and confidence at a fraction of the cost. We believe in making escrow services accessible to businesses of all sizes by offering competitive, transparent pricing.

Is Usko Suitable for My Business?

Traditional escrow services often come with high fees and cumbersome processes. With Usko, you benefit from a streamlined, cost-effective solution that automates payments based on real-world triggers. Plus, the security provided by blockchain technology ensures that funds are handled with the utmost transparency, giving you and your partners complete peace of mind without breaking the bank.

How Secure is Usko?​

Security is the foundation of Usko. Blockchain technology ensures that all transactions are fully transparent and immutable, meaning they cannot be altered or tampered with. Each smart contract is stored securely on the blockchain, giving both parties complete control and trust that payments will only be released when all conditions are fulfilled.

Why Choose Usko Over Traditional Escrow Services? ​

Traditional escrow services often come with high fees and cumbersome processes. With Usko, you benefit from a streamlined, cost-effective solution that automates payments based on real-world triggers. Plus, the security provided by blockchain technology ensures that funds are handled with the utmost transparency, giving you and your partners complete peace of mind without breaking the bank.

Karabo Makete

Investment Principal

Karabo Makete is a dynamic investment professional focused on leveraging capital to create lasting economic impact. With a background in Town and Regional Planning (Honours) from Wits University and experience as an investment analyst, she specialises in due diligence, financial modelling, and strategic growth planning. As an Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellow and SECHA Junior Operator-Investor Network Cohort member, she brings a wealth of knowledge in assessing and structuring investments for long-term success. Her expertise extends beyond finance into project management, ensuring that businesses receiving funding from Aions Ventures are well-positioned for sustainable growth. Karabo is also deeply committed to inclusivity, women’s empowerment, and reducing unemployment through the development of high-impact enterprises. Her role at Aions Ventures is instrumental in identifying and nurturing the next generation of game-changing businesses.

Ugandran Maistry

Key Individual & Compliance Lead

Ugan is the compliance backbone of Aions Ventures, ensuring that all investment and financial management activities align with regulatory frameworks and best practices. With over two decades of experience in financial planning, investment management, and estate planning, he provides critical oversight to safeguard both investor and business interests. His expertise includes life insurance, corporate financial structuring, business assurance, and retirement planning, making him a key asset in maintaining the integrity and strategic direction of Aions Ventures. Ugan’s leadership ensures that Aions operates with the highest level of financial stewardship, giving investors’ confidence that funds are managed with precision and purpose. His work is fundamental to Aions’ broader mission of fostering sustainable economic growth by responsibly deploying capital to high-potential businesses.

Adesh Kisten

Director of Portfolio Support

Adesh Kisten is a seasoned investment strategist and business growth expert with a track record of helping startups secure over $50 million in funding. With deep expertise in fintech, health tech, SaaS, and two-sided marketplaces, he plays a crucial role in structuring deals, optimizing operations, and scaling ventures. Adesh has guided numerous businesses through the complexities of securing investment, expanding internationally, and achieving operational efficiency. His collaboration with Aions Ventures is driven by a shared mission to develop a robust pipeline of investable businesses that can scale both locally and globally. Adesh is deeply committed to fostering entrepreneurship, building sustainable business models, and ensuring that South Africa’s small business sector thrives through access to strategic funding and mentorship.

KERRYN CAMPION

COO & DIRECTOR

Kerryn Campion is a strategic powerhouse with over two decades of experience in product development, business strategy, and venture building. As COO of Aions Ventures, she drives operational excellence and ensures that investments are not only financially sound but also geared toward long-term sustainability. Her expertise spans the media, marketing, and technology industries, where she has successfully developed and executed growth strategies that scale businesses while maintaining their core mission. Kerryn’s leadership is rooted in her passion for fostering innovation, creating meaningful impact, and empowering entrepreneurs to build businesses that contribute to South Africa’s economic development. She is a key architect behind Aions Ventures’ mission to bridge the gap between pre-seed, seed, and venture-ready funding, ensuring that high-potential businesses get the support they need to succeed.

MITCHAN ADAMS

CEO & FOUNDER

Mitchan Adams is a visionary serial entrepreneur dedicated to reshaping South Africa’s startup ecosystem. Born and raised in Fleurhof, he witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by underserved communities and has committed his career to building sustainable businesses that create jobs and drive economic empowerment. As a co-founder of Ozow Payments, he played a pivotal role in its success, securing significant investments and positioning it as a leader in alternative payments. With deep experience in fintech, venture building, and scaling businesses, Mitchan is now focused on ensuring that small businesses have access to the tools, mentorship, and funding they need to thrive. His leadership at Aions Ventures reflects his passion for fostering high-growth ventures that deliver real impact for investors, entrepreneurs, and the South African economy.