Google shortlists 10 African startups for accelerator program

Tech giant Google has selected 10 African startups to participate in its eighth cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program.

The announcement comes three months after the company opened applications for the program.

Out of the 10 shortlisted startups, Nigeria produced five, Kenya produced three, and Rwanda and South Africa produced one each. The 10 shortlisted startups were chosen from nearly 1,000 applicants on the African continent.

The 10-week equity-free accelerator program supports Series A startups that build Africa-centric solutions based on artificial intelligence (AI). The program creates a platform that equips these startups with viable business tools that will help them grow and scale their business.

According to Google, all participants will benefit from access to Google's AI expertise, and technical resources, which include up to $350,000 in Google Cloud Credits, mentorship from seasoned AI professionals and networking opportunities.

Meet the 10 Startups

CDIAL AI (Nigeria), which enhances multilingual communication throughout the continent using the combined strengths of artificial and collective intelligence.

Earthbond (Nigeria), a one-stop-shop for businesses that need reliable solar energy that saves them money on fuel for their generators.

MyAIFactchecker (Nigeria), an AI-powered app that provides users with a powerful set of tools to help verify the authenticity of news and statements quickly and conveniently.

NextCounsel (Nigeria), a provider of innovative, data-driven, end-to-end technology solutions that eliminate the legal sector's inefficiencies.

Rana Energy (Nigeria), a provider of clean, reliable energy solutions to small and medium enterprises and communities through a data-driven ecosystem.

Nobuk Africa (Kenya), which simplifies financial management for groups and collectives across Africa with a platform for collecting funds, reconciling payments, and generating reports.

Nakili (Kenya), a mobile-based app for streamlined management and enhanced customer experiences for salons, barbershops and spas.

Triply (Kenya), which connects travelers with seamless booking experiences and travel businesses with powerful management tools.

Fixxr (South Africa), which puts car owners and businesses in the driver's seat with transparent and convenient on-location vehicle maintenance and repair services.

Lifesten Health (Rwanda), a dynamic and innovative wellness platform dedicated to transforming lives through comprehensive health solutions.

Google's AI strategy

Google has been investing heavily in AI innovation, especially on the African continent.

In February 2024, it changed its chatbot's name from Bard to Gemini and released a dedicated Gemini mobile app with a paid-for AI subscription service.

Google said accelerator participants will benefit from AI expertise and technical resources, which include Google Cloud Credits, mentorship from seasoned AI professionals and networking opportunities. (Source: Google)

The launch followed a Google study that found that South Africans are showing major interest in AI, with Google searches related to AI topics increasing by 370% in 2023. The survey also found that searches for AI reached an all-time high last year in South Africa and grew 650% over the last five years.

Google's managing director for Africa, Alex Okosi, recently spoke to Connecting Africa about Google's AI strategy in Africa including its AI-powered search and how local businesses can harness the potential of AI.

Follow Connecting Africa on our new X account @connect__africa to get the latest telecoms and tech news across Africa.

In August 2023, the company launched a startup accelerator program for Africa aimed specifically at artificial intelligence (AI) startups looking to use AI to solve local challenges.

In 2021, Google pledged to invest $1 billion over five years to support Africa's digital transformation through a range of initiatives.

*Top image source: Image by senivpetro on Freepik.

— Matshepo Sehloho, Associate Editor, Connecting Africa