Google today unveiled the first cohort for its Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program.
The 11 startups, picked from a vast pool of innovative talent, are using cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence 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 $350k 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 are; ● Avalon Health (South Africa): Empowers patients with streamlined online healthcare access and offers doctors digital tools to enhance care.
● Chatbots Africa (Ghana): Spearheading SMEs’ transition into the Social Commerce era
with AI-driven online storefronts.
● Dial Afrika Inc (Kenya): Tailoring customer support tools for global businesses, with a
focus on African SMBs.
● Famasi Africa (Nigeria): Building the OS for pharmacies in emerging markets.
● Fastagger Inc (Kenya): Using AI to amplify sales and loyalty, supporting MSMEs’
growth.
● Garri Logistics (Ethiopia): Digitalizing freight brokerage and transport services.
● Izifin (Nigeria): Providing an end-to-end credit infrastructure via API for small
businesses.
● Lengo AI (Senegal): Launching the first Data-Driven OS for the Informal Sector.
● Logistify AI (Uganda): Minimising inventory losses in industrial facilities.
● Telliscope (Ethiopia): Offering an AI-enabled business intelligence platform.
● Vzy (Nigeria): Revolutionising website building with AI-driven tools that craft sites in mere minutes.
Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa,”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.”
Speaking on the selection: Adeola Ayoola, CEO/Co-founder of Famasi Africa (Nigeria): “Famasi Africa is scaling AI-powered digital health solutions to reach more underserved communities. Joining the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program represents a significant step towards realising that dream. With Google’s mentorship, we’re confident of scaling our solutions, reaching more pharmacies, and ultimately improving healthcare outcomes.”
Since 2017, Google has supported African startups across diverse programs. Collectively, these startups have raised $263 million and created over 2,800 job opportunities.