Five Nigerian startups have been chosen by tech giant, Google to be a part of the eighth cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator.
Ten tech firms from South Africa, Kenya, Rwanda, and Nigeria make up this year’s cohort. They are all leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to address major problems in a variety of industries, including fintech, health, and other services.
Nigeria leads this cohort, taking up half of the ten available places, according to the competitive applications that were made available to all African companies in April of this year.
The 10 startups were chosen from around 1,000 applications, according to Google, demonstrating exceptional potential and inventiveness in the African tech sector.
The startups selected from Nigeria include:
CDIAL AI, is using artificial and collective intelligence to revolutionize multilingual communication;
Earthbond, with support from development finance and carbon accounting, is illuminating homes and businesses throughout Africa with reasonably priced, dependable energy solutions;
MyAIFactchecker, which gives users access to an AI-powered tool for fact-checking that helps them fight false information and encourage wise decision-making;
NextCounsel is a Nigerian business that is using artificial intelligence (AI) to power a platform for contract administration, engagement, and compliance that is boosting lawyer productivity; and
Rana Energy offers clean, reliable energy solutions to SMEs and communities via a data-driven ecosystem.
Other African startups selected include:
Fixxr is a South African firm that offers convenient and transparent on-site vehicle maintenance and repair services, putting businesses and automobile owners in control;
Rwanda’s Lifesten Health promotes physical, mental, and nutritional well-being through innovative screening methods and incentive-based initiatives.
Nakili, a Kenyan startup that is modernizing salons, barbershops, and spas for easier management and better client experiences;
Nobuk Africa, a Kenyan company, offers a smooth platform for fund collection, payment reconciliation, and report generation, making financial management easier for associations and collectives throughout the continent; and
Another Kenyan startup, Triply, is creating Africa’s travel industry by providing travel agencies with robust administration tools and travelers with effortless booking experiences.
Commenting, the Head of Startups Programs for Google in Africa, Folarin Aiyegbusi, 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.”
He noted that the ten firms would take part in an organised program meant to assist their growth from July 29 to September 20, 2024.
“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 program will also prepare them to secure follow-on funding from Google’s global network of investors,” he stated.
Since its launching in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program has supported 106 startups from 17 African countries.
