This year, the Google for Startups Africa accelerator is focusing on AI technologies to tackle Africa’s biggest challenges. Out of nearly 1,000 applications, ten innovative startups from Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa were selected. These startups will join a structured program designed to support their growth.
Google’s support for African entrepreneurs
Kenya and Nigeria lead the list of ten startups chosen for the eighth Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program. Nigeria contributed five startups, Kenya three, while Rwanda and South Africa each had one selected.
Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Programs at Google Africa, notes, « Even though investment flows have slowed, the resilience and ingenuity of African entrepreneurs continue to stand out ». Google is dedicated to supporting these founders with the resources and mentorship needed to scale their solutions.
The three-month, non-equity, virtual program provides African startups with mentoring, technical resources, and access to a global network of experts and investors.
Google Accelerator for startups in Africa
- Nakili, a local company that modernizes salons, barber shops, and spas with a mobile app for efficient management and enhanced customer experiences, will be one of Kenya’s startups in the program.
- Triple, which is developing Africa’s travel operating system to link travelers with seamless booking experiences and provide travel companies with robust management tools, was also shortlisted.
- Nobuk Africa, a fintech that streamlines financial management for groups and collectives across Africa through a seamless platform for fundraising, payment reconciliation, and reporting, was the third startup selected.
The remaining start-ups are CDIAL AI, Earthbound, MyAIFactchecker, NextCounsel, and Rana Energy from Nigeria; Fixxr from South Africa; and Lifesten Health from Rwanda. These ten startups will engage in a structured program designed to foster their growth, gaining direct access to Google mentors and experienced entrepreneurs who have navigated the startup journey.
AI at the heart of startup strategy
These startup programs have collectively raised over USD 263 million and created more than 2,800 direct jobs, highlighting their significant impact on Africa’s technology sector. This year’s accelerator places a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence, reflecting the increasing importance of advanced technologies in tackling Africa’s critical challenges.
Participants will engage in technical workshops to refine their products, enhance their business strategies, and develop their leadership skills. The program will also help them prepare to attract additional funding from Google’s global network of investors.
Since its launch in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa has supported 106 startups across 17 African countries.
.
