Google picks five Nigerian startups for Africa accelerator program

• Published On: 30 July 2024 at 19:49

Google has chosen five Nigerian firms for the eighth cohort of its Google for firms Accelerator.

This year's cohort comprises ten technology startups from South Africa, Kenya, Rwanda, and Nigeria. They are all using artificial intelligence (AI) to solve key challenges in a wide range of industries, including finance, health care, and other services.

Nigeria dominates this cohort, accounting for half of the ten available spots, according to the competitive applications made accessible to all African organizations in April of this year.

According to Google, the ten firms were picked from about 1,000 applicants for their extraordinary potential and innovation in the African tech sector.

The startups chosen from Nigeria include:

CDIAL AI is utilizing artificial and collective intelligence to revolutionize multilingual communication.

Earthbond, with backing from development finance and carbon accounting, is illuminating homes and businesses across Africa with fairly cost, reliable energy solutions;

MyAIFactchecker, which provides users with access to an AI-powered fact-checking tool that helps people combat erroneous information and encourages sensible decision-making;

NextCounsel is a Nigerian company that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to power a platform for contract administration, engagement, and compliance, which is enhancing lawyer productivity; and

Rana Energy provides clean, dependable energy solutions to SMEs and communities through a data-driven ecosystem.

Other African startups that were selected include:

Fixxr is a South African company that provides convenient and transparent on-site vehicle maintenance and repair services, giving businesses and automobile owners control.

Rwanda's Lifesten Health promotes physical, mental, and nutritional well-being with novel screening technologies and incentive-based programs.

Nakili is a Kenyan startup that modernizes salons, barbershops, and spas for easier management and improved client experiences.

Nobuk Africa, a Kenyan firm, provides a seamless platform for fund collecting, payment reconciliation, and report preparation, making financial management easier for associations and collectives across the continent; and

Another Kenyan startup, Triply, is transforming Africa's travel business by providing travel companies with powerful administration tools and travelers with simple booking experiences.

Folarin Aiyegbusi, Google's Head of Startup Programs in Africa, commented, "We are excited to welcome the 8th cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program. These startups represent the future of African innovation, using technology to tackle real-world problems and benefit their communities. We are committed to assisting these innovators by providing them with the tools and mentorship they require to thrive and scale their solutions."

He stated that the ten companies would participate in an organized program designed to help them flourish from July 29 to September 20, 2024.

"They will have direct access to the knowledge of Google mentors and experienced entrepreneurs who have successfully traversed the startup journey.

"They will participate in technical training to improve their goods, business strategies, and leadership abilities. The program will help equip them to acquire further money from Google's global network of investors," he said.

Since its inception in 2018, Google for Startups Accelerator Africa has sponsored 106 startups from 17 African nations.