Google selects 11 African startups in inaugural ‘AI First’ accelerator programme
Business A.M
Google has unveiled the first cohort for its ‘Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First’ programme, aimed at harnessing the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Africa,which according to a McKinsey report is projected to add $1.3 trillion to Africa’s GDP by 2030.
The 11 startups,picked from a vast pool of innovative talent by the multinational technology company, are renowned for using cutting-edge technology to address both Africa’s challenges and broader global issues.
The selected startups will undergo a 10-week accelerator journey. Beyond benefiting from Google’s AI expertise and a $350,000 allocation in Google Cloud Credits, they’ll benefit from mentorship sessions, technical guidance, and networking opportunities to enhance their reach and impact.
The selected startups include; Avalon Health, a South Africa based startup that empowers patients with streamlined online healthcare access and offers doctors digital tools to enhance care; Chatbots Africa from Ghana which Spearheads SMEs’ transition into the Social Commerce era with AI-driven online storefronts.
The 11 selected startups include Avalon Health (South Africa), Chatbots Africa (Ghana), Dial Afrika Inc (Kenya), Famasi Africa (Nigeria), Fastagger Inc (Kenya), Garri Logistics (Ethiopia), Izifin (Nigeria). Others are Lengo AI (Senegal), Logistify AI (Uganda), Telliscope (Ethiopia) and Vzy (Nigeria).
Since 2017, Google has consistently supported African startups across diverse programmes. Collectively, these startups have raised $263 million and created over 2,800 job opportunities.
Folarin Aiyegbusi, head of startup ecosystem, Africa, remarked that Google has been working on AI for over a decade, and has shown how useful AI is in its products and for developers externally.
“AI is not only a powerful enabler, it’s also a major platform shift. That’s why we’re focused on making it easy and scalable for others to innovate with AI. Our chosen startups for the ‘AI First’ programme embody this vision, leveraging AI in pioneering ways to address both local and global challenges,” Aiyegbusi said.
Speaking on the selection, Adeola Ayoola, CEO/Co-founder of Famasi Africa, disclosed that the Nigerian startup is scaling AI-powered digital health solutions to reach more underserved communities.
According to Ayoola, joining the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First programme represents a significant step towards realising the startup’s dream.
“With Google’s mentorship, we’re confident of scaling our solutions, reaching more pharmacies, and ultimately improving healthcare outcomes,” he added.
Japheth Dibo, CEO & co-founder of Kenya based Dial Afrika, said the startup is revolutionising customer support in Africa with cutting-edge AI-powered solutions.
Dibo noted that being selected for the Google business empowerment initiative will allow it to leverage advanced AI technology to make its vision a reality.
The Dial Afrika CEO expressed optimism that Google’s support and mentorship will help the startup to revolutionise customer support and equip businesses across the African continent with the tools to thrive and excel.