Google has unveiled the first cohort for its ‘Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First’ program, marking a significant leap forward for African innovation. The 11 selected startups, chosen from a competitive field of groundbreaking projects, are harnessing the power of cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) to tackle challenges not only in Africa but also on a global scale.
The selected startups, a diverse group hailing from various African countries, will embark on a transformative 10-week accelerator journey. During this period, they will receive invaluable support from Google, including access to Google’s AI expertise, and a substantial $350,000 allocation in Google Cloud Credits. Additionally, the startups will benefit from mentorship sessions, technical guidance, and extensive networking opportunities, all aimed at enhancing their reach and impact.
The selected startups and their innovative ventures include:
- Avalon Health (South Africa): Empowering patients with streamlined online healthcare access and offering digital tools to enhance care for doctors.
- Chatbots Africa (Ghana): Spearheading the transition of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) into the Social Commerce era through AI-driven online storefronts.
- Dial Afrika Inc (Kenya): Customizing customer support tools for global businesses, with a special focus on African SMEs.
- Famasi Africa (Nigeria): Developing the Operating System for pharmacies in emerging markets using AI technology.
- Fastagger Inc (Kenya): Amplifying sales and loyalty for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through AI-driven strategies.
- Garri Logistics (Ethiopia): Digitalizing freight brokerage and transport services using AI solutions.
- Izifin (Nigeria): Providing an end-to-end credit infrastructure via API for small businesses.
- Lengo AI (Senegal): Launching the first Data-Driven Operating System for the Informal Sector using AI technologies.
- Logistify AI (Uganda): Minimizing inventory losses in industrial facilities through AI-driven logistics solutions.
- Telliscope (Ethiopia): Offering an AI-enabled business intelligence platform.
- Vzy (Nigeria): Revolutionizing website building with AI-driven tools that craft sites in minutes.
Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa, Google, expressed excitement about the program’s potential impact: “AI is not only a powerful enabler; it’s also a major platform shift. Our chosen startups for the ‘AI First’ program embody this vision, leveraging AI in pioneering ways to address both local and global challenges. We’re here excited to support and amplify their impact.”
Several of the chosen startups also shared their enthusiasm. Adeola Ayoola, CEO/Co-founder of Famasi Africa (Nigeria), stated, “Joining the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program represents a significant step towards realizing our dream. With Google’s mentorship, we’re confident of scaling our solutions, reaching more pharmacies, and ultimately improving healthcare outcomes.”
Japheth Dibo, CEO & Co-Founder of Dial Afrika (Kenya), added, “Being selected for the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program will allow us to leverage advanced AI technology to revolutionize customer support in Africa. With this support and mentorship, we aim to equip businesses across the African continent with the tools to thrive and excel.”
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