Google Announces 10 Startups Selected for Africa Accelerator Programme

Google has announced the selection of 10 startups for its Africa Accelerator Programme, a three-month virtual initiative aimed at helping African startups use technology to tackle some of the continent’s most critical challenges.

The chosen startups, hailing from Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Uganda, were selected from nearly 1,000 applicants, showcasing the exceptional talent and creativity within Africa’s tech ecosystem.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the tech giant emphasized the crucial role that startups play in driving economic growth and technological innovation across Africa. These startups are addressing local issues with customized solutions, creating jobs, and improving the quality of life on the continent.

Despite a slowdown in investment flows, often referred to as a “funding winter,” in Sub-Saharan Africa, Google noted the resilience and ingenuity of African entrepreneurs.

Since its launch in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program has supported 106 startups from 17 African countries. These startups have collectively raised over $263 million and created more than 2,800 direct jobs, underscoring the program’s significant impact on the African tech landscape.

This year’s cohort focuses heavily on artificial intelligence, reflecting the growing importance of advanced technologies in addressing the continent’s key issues.

Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startups Programs for Google in Africa, expressed excitement about the 8th cohort, saying, “These startups represent the future of African innovation, harnessing the power of technology to solve real-world problems and uplift their communities. We are committed to supporting these founders by providing them with the resources and mentorship they need to succeed and scale their solutions.”

The selected startups for the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa: Class 8 include:

1. CDIAL AI (Nigeria): Enhancing multilingual communication across Africa using artificial and collective intelligence.
2. Earthbond (Nigeria): Providing affordable and reliable energy solutions, supported by carbon accounting and development finance.
3. Lifesten Health (Rwanda): Advancing health and wellness through innovative screening and incentive-based programs focused on physical, mental, and nutritional health.
4. MyAIFactchecker (Nigeria): Offering an AI-powered tool to fight misinformation and promote informed decision-making through fact-checking.
5. Nakili (Kenya): Digitizing salons, barbershops, and spas with a mobile app for better management and customer experience.
6. NextCounsel (Nigeria): Boosting lawyer productivity with an AI tool for contract management, solicitor engagement, and compliance.
7. Nobuk Africa (Kenya): Facilitating financial management for groups across Africa with a platform for fund collection, payment reconciliation, and reporting.
8. Rana Energy (Nigeria): Delivering clean and reliable energy solutions to SMEs and communities through a data-driven approach.
9. Triply (Kenya): Developing an integrated travel operating system for seamless bookings and management tools for travel businesses.

From July 29th to September 20th, 2024, these startups will participate in a structured program designed to accelerate their growth. They will have access to mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs, technical workshops to enhance their products, and guidance on business strategies and leadership skills. The program also aims to prepare them for follow-on funding from Google’s global investor network.

Participation in this accelerator marks a crucial milestone in the startups’ journey toward scaling their solutions and amplifying their impact.