A global programme that supports startups that are solving social problems has announced that it will provide funding for 10 selected companies, starting from this February 2024.
The programme, called Startup Boost, is run by Tretton37, a Swedish tech consulting company that works with some of the leading brands in the world, such as Telia, Klarna, Paradox Interactive, Tibber and ICA.
Startup Boost was launched in late 2023 with the aim of helping startups that are looking to make a positive difference in the world. The programme provides pro bono support in areas such as programming, design, and strategy, tailored to the specific needs of each startup.
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The funding details
The programme has announced that it will also provide funding to the 10 selected startups, in addition to the free support. The funding amount and the terms will vary depending on the stage, the potential, and the impact of each startup.
The funding will be delivered in February 2024, along with the start of the support period. The funding will help the startups to grow their businesses, scale their solutions, and reach more customers and beneficiaries.
The programme has partnered with several investors and organisations that share its vision and mission, such as the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), the Nordic Development Fund (NDF), and the African Development Bank (AfDB).
The selected startups
Out of almost 50 applicants, 10 startups were chosen for the programme, half of which are from Africa. The African startups are:
Ahiyoyo: A digital marketplace that connects buyers and sellers of digital products, such as e-books, courses, software, and games. Ahiyoyo aims to empower African creators and entrepreneurs to monetize their skills and talents online.
Aliments: A platform that connects farmers and consumers of fresh produce. Aliments enables farmers to sell their crops directly to consumers, reducing waste and increasing income. Consumers can order fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers and have them delivered to their doorstep.
Iguru Therapies: A service that helps people find and book online sessions with qualified therapists. Iguru Therapies addresses the mental health gap in Uganda and other African countries, where access to professional counseling is limited and stigmatized.
Iko Africa: A self-publishing platform that allows African writers to publish and sell their books online. Iko Africa also provides editing, marketing, and distribution services to help authors reach a wider audience and earn royalties.
Zupoto: A legal-tech platform that simplifies and automates the process of creating and managing contracts. Zupoto helps businesses and individuals to draft, sign, and store contracts online, reducing costs and risks.
The other five startups in the Startup Boost programme are from Sweden, Macedonia, the United Arab Emirates, and Slovenia. They are:
Bokio: A cloud-based accounting software that helps small businesses and freelancers to manage their finances. Bokio automates tasks such as invoicing, bookkeeping, and tax reporting, saving time and money.
Cognism: A sales intelligence platform that helps B2B companies to find and engage with their ideal customers. Cognism uses artificial intelligence and data science to generate leads, enrich profiles, and personalize outreach.
Drona: A drone delivery service that delivers medical supplies and other essential items to remote and hard-to-reach areas. Drona aims to improve access to healthcare and humanitarian aid in regions where infrastructure and transportation are lacking.
Nura: A platform that connects parents and caregivers of children with special needs. Nura provides information, resources, and support to help families navigate the challenges and opportunities of raising a child with a disability.
Vouch: A peer-to-peer lending platform that enables people to borrow and lend money within their trusted network. Vouch leverages social capital and reputation to create a more inclusive and affordable alternative to traditional financial institutions.
A win-win situation for startups and tretton37
The selected startups will receive free support and funding from tretton37 for a period of three months, starting from February 2024. The support and fundingng will be delivered remotely, through online meetings, workshops, and mentoring sessions.
The programme is expected to benefit both the startups and tretton37, as they will be able to learn from each other and exchange ideas and feedback.
Deniz Yildirim, the CEO of tretton37, said that he was impressed and inspired by the innovative ideas of the startups that applied for the programme.
“Many of these ideas have the ability to change lives – some can even save lives. We’re excited to support and fund the ten startups that were chosen and together make a positive impact in the world,” he said.