LIVE UPDATES
Google has on Tuesday announced the launch of 10 startups for its Africa Accelerator Programme.
The startups which is a three-month virtual program is designed to support African startups in leveraging technology to solve some of the continent’s most pressing challenges.
The selected startups, from Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Uganda, were selected from nearly 1,000 applications, highlighting the remarkable talent and creativity in the African tech ecosystem.
According to Google in a statement, the startups would play a pivotal role in driving economic development and technological innovation in Africa.
The statement read, “Since its inception in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program has supported 106 startups from 17 African countries.
“These startups have collectively raised over $263m and created more than 2,800 direct jobs, showcasing the program’s substantial impact on the African tech landscape,” the technology multinational stated.
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.
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.
"From July 29th to September 20th, 2024, these ten startups will participate in a structured program designed to support their growth."
Google said these startups will receive direct access to the expertise of 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,” the statement highlighted.
