BY MOTOLANI OSENI
Five Nigerian startups who have been selected to be part of the cohort 8 of Google for Startups Accelerator, will leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to solve significant challenges across various sectors, including fintech, climate, health, and other services.
The startups from Nigeria include CDIAL AI, a startup that is transforming multilingual communication across Africa with the power of artificial and collective intelligence; and Earthbond, which is lighting up homes and businesses across Africa with affordable, reliable energy solutions, bolstered by carbon accounting and development finance.
Others are MyAIFactchecker, which equips users with an AI-powered tool to combat misinformation and promote informed decision-making through fact-checking; NextCounsel, a Nigerian startup that is supercharging lawyer productivity with an AI-powered tool for contract management, solicitor engagement, and compliance; and Rana Energy provides clean, reliable energy solutions to SMEs and communities through a data-driven ecosystem.
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This year’s cohort consists of 10 tech startups from Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa. According to Google, the 10 startups were selected from nearly 1,000 applications, highlighting the remarkable talent and creativity in the African tech ecosystem.
Commenting on the selection, the head of Startups Programmes for Google in Africa, Folarin Aiyegbusi, in a press statement, made available to LEADERSHIP, said: “We are thrilled to welcome the 8th cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa programme. 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.”
He noted that, from July 29th to September 20th, 2024, the ten startups would participate in a structured program designed to support their growth. “They will receive direct access to the expertise of Google 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,” he said.
Since its inception in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program has supported 106 startups from 17 African countries. According to the company, these startups have collectively raised over $263 million and created more than 2,800 direct jobs, showcasing the program’s substantial impact on the African tech landscape.
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.
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