AWARI App gets funding to boost urban discovery, SME growth
AWARI, Nigeria’s lifestyle discovery platform, has secured a funding boost to scale its mission of transforming urban discovery and supporting lifestyle businesses across Africa ahead of Detty December, the country’s peak entertainment and tourism season.
The funding round, which surpassed the company’s previous pre-seed raise, was led by the Lagos Angel Network (LAN) and supported by a network of strategic investors.
Founded by entrepreneur Tannaz Bahnam, AWARI connects users with local lifestyle businesses — including restaurants, spas, gyms, shops, and events — while providing business owners with tools for visibility, bookings, loyalty management, and data-driven growth.
With over 2,450 businesses already listed across Lagos and Abuja, AWARI is redefining how residents and visitors experience Nigerian cities.
Speaking on the new funding, Bahnam, said the investment will help the company deepen its impact and strengthen its role in supporting urban living and SME growth.
“AWARI was built to transform the way people experience their cities while helping lifestyle SMEs grow sustainably,” she said.
“With the support of the Lagos Angel Network and other visionary investors, we are doubling down on developing tools to strengthen communities, empower businesses, and improve everyday urban life,” she explained.
“And with Detty December quickly approaching, now is the ideal time for businesses to join AWARI and gain visibility during Nigeria’s peak lifestyle season,” she added.
According to the company, the new funding will be used to scale its event ticketing platform and loyalty program, drive business engagement and user downloads ahead of Detty December and enhance its technology and content operations as it prepares to expand into Ghana, Morocco, and Qatar within the next year.
The development builds on Bahnam’s 15-year experience connecting consumers and businesses through Lost in Lagos, Nigeria’s longest-running lifestyle platform.
Through Lost in Lagos Plus magazine and its popular Restaurant Week series, Bahnam has established a strong track record of curating city experiences and supporting local enterprises.
Yemi Keri, chairperson of the Lagos Angel Network, described the company’s growth as a positive sign for Africa’s digital and SME ecosystem.
“We are excited to support AWARI as it shapes the future of urban discovery in Africa,” Keri said.
“AWARI is creating real value for SMEs by helping them increase visibility, attract new customers, and thrive in competitive urban markets.”
