Google unveils 8th cohort of Google for Startups Accelerator Africa

Business a.m.

Google has announced the 8th cohort of its Google for Startups Accelerator Africa programme. This year’s cohort features ten innovative startups from Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa, selected from nearly 1,000 applications, highlighting the remarkable talent and creativity in the African tech ecosystem.

The Google for Startups Accelerator Africa: Class 8 participants and their attributes include:

• CDIAL AI (Nigeria): Transforming multilingual communication across Africa with the power of artificial and collective intelligence.
• Earthbond (Nigeria): Lighting up homes and businesses across Africa with affordable, reliable energy solutions, bolstered by carbon accounting and development finance.
• Fixxr (South Africa): Putting car owners and businesses in the driver’s seat with transparent and convenient on-location vehicle maintenance and repair services.
• Lifesten Health (Rwanda): Innovating health and wellness through cutting-edge screening and incentive-based programs focused on physical, mental, and nutritional health.
• MyAIFactchecker (Nigeria): Equipping users with an AI-powered tool to combat misinformation and promote informed decision-making through fact-checking.
• Nakili (Kenya): Bringing salons, barbershops, and spas into the digital age with a mobile-based app for streamlined management and enhanced customer experiences.
• NextCounsel (Nigeria): Supercharging lawyer productivity with an AI-powered tool for contract management, solicitor engagement, compliance, and more.
• Nobuk Africa (Kenya): Simplifying financial management for groups and collectives across Africa with a seamless platform for collecting funds, reconciling payments, and generating reports.
• Rana Energy (Nigeria): Providing clean, reliable energy solutions to SMEs and communities through a data-driven ecosystem.
• Triply (Kenya): Building Africa’s travel operating system, connecting travellers with seamless booking experiences and travel businesses with powerful management tools.

Since its inception in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa programme has supported 106 startups from 17 African countries. These startups have collectively raised over $263 million and created more than 2,800 direct jobs, showcasing the program’s substantial impact on the African tech landscape. This year’s cohort places a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence, highlighting the growing importance of advanced technologies in addressing Africa’s most pressing challenges.

As Google pointed out, startups are key agents of economic development and technological advancement in Africa, delivering tailored solutions to address local challenges and creating jobs, while also enhancing the quality of life across the continent. Despite the funding winter in Sub-Saharan Africa, where investment flows have slowed down, the resilience and resourcefulness of African entrepreneurs have been seen to have persisted, reflecting the boundless creativity and drive that fuels innovation in the region.

From July 29th to September 20th, 2024, thee ten startups will participate in a structured programme designed to support their growth. They will receive direct access to the expertise of Google mentors and seasoned entrepreneurs who have navigated the startup path. They will engage in technical workshops to refine their products, hone their business strategies, and strengthen their leadership skills. The programme will also prepare them to secure follow-on funding from Google’s global network of investors.

Commenting on the programme, Folarin Aiyegbusi, head of startups Programmes for Google in Africa, said: “We are thrilled to welcome the 8th cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program. 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.”