Jean-Luc Sallustro

With over three decades of experience in environmental engineering, waste management, agroecology, and biotechnology, I bring a wealth of expertise to mentoring African startups in cleantech, agritech, and biotech. My career has been dedicated to developing and implementing sustainable solutions that integrate environmental management with economic development, particularly in Africa and island states. As a mentor, my role is to guide, support, and accelerate innovative startups, leveraging my extensive industry knowledge, technical experience, and strategic insight.

My career spans leadership roles in engineering, innovation, and consultancy. As the founder of JUA Group, I have pioneered biodigestion and composting technologies, obtaining five major patents in biotechs and cleantechs. With OTA (Organic Tropical Agriculture), I designed and implemented terrace roof geodesic, anticyclonic integrated greenhouses, which won the Best Agritech/Foodtech Startup award by SASA in 2019. I have successfully led the development of industrial-scale pilot plants, demonstrating the viability of organic waste recycling and biofertilizer production. My strategic collaborations with organizations such as the African Development Bank (AfDB) and regional governments have positioned me as a key expert in waste-to-energy, regenerative agriculture, and sustainable urban planning.

I have also played a critical role in policy development and implementation, having served as a special adviser to the Mauritius Ministry of Local Government on solid waste management. My ability to navigate the intersection of technology, policy, and market development makes me an asset to startups aiming to commercialize sustainable innovations.

Key Areas of Focus for Mentorship

1. Cleantech Startups

Cleantech innovation is fundamental to addressing Africa’s energy and environmental challenges. My mentorship in this sector aligns with VC4A’s focus on:

Waste-to-energy

Africa is at the forefront of global sustainability challenges and opportunities. Startups in cleantech, agritech, and biotech are uniquely positioned to drive impactful change, but they require the right expertise and guidance to navigate technical, financial, and regulatory landscapes.

Through VC4A, I am committed to:

Leveraging VC4A’s network to support innovative entrepreneurs.

Engaging in structured mentorship programs that align with my areas of expertise.

Facilitating investment connections through VC4A’s Mentor-Driven Capital approach.

Enhancing startup scalability by offering strategic guidance within the VC4A Mentorship Marketplace.