Google recently announced the first 11 African startups to be part of its new “Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First” program. This is a bold move by Google to encourage new ideas that solve problems on a global and local level.
According to a McKinsey report, AI could add an impressive $1.3 trillion to Africa’s GDP by 2030. This strategic effort shows that the tech giant is serious about improving the transformative power of AI across the continent.
In a 10-week journey, these startups will not only learn a lot about AI with the help of Google’s unmatched experience but also be pushed forward by a generous $350,000 in Google Cloud Credits. In addition, the startups that are taking part will have a lot of mentorship sessions, tactical advice, and networking events that will help them make a more prominent effect and reach more customers.
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The African AI startups chosen are:
Dial Afrika Inc. (Kenya): Developing customer service tools for multinational corporations with a critical emphasis on African SMBs.
Fastagger Inc. (Kenya): Using AI to boost customer loyalty and sales, supporting the expansion of MSMEs.
Logistify AI (Uganda): Strategizing to minimize inventory losses in industrial facilities through intelligent solutions.
Garri Logistics (Ethiopia): Digitizing freight brokerage and transport services, ensuring a streamlined logistics landscape.
Telescope (Ethiopia): Showing off a business intelligence tool with AI that helps people make decisions based on data.
Chatbots Africa (Ghana): Using AI to power their online stores, they are leading small businesses to move into the age of social commerce.
Famasi Africa (Nigeria): creating an all-encompassing OS with AI support for pharmacies in emerging markets.
Izifin (Nigeria): Giving growing small businesses access to a complete credit system through an API.
Vzy (Nigeria): changing the way websites are made with easy-to-use AI-powered tools that make ideas come to life in minutes.
Lengo AI (Senegal): releasing the first Data-Driven OS designed for the Informal Sector. This is the start of a new wave of digital change.
Avalon Health (South Africa): using new digital tools to improve relations between patients and doctors and to scale digital healthcare.
Startup founders’ comments
Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa, was excited and optimistic about the future. He said, “AI is not only a powerful enabler but also a major platform shift.” Google wants to make sure that other people can use AI to come up with new ideas in an easy and scalable way.
Adeola Ayoola, CEO and co-founder of Famasi Africa, talked about how the Google for Startups Accelerator has helped them take significant steps toward their goal of growing AI-powered digital health solutions.
Through various programs, Google has strongly supported African startups since 2017. These programs have helped them raise $263 million and create over 2,800 jobs.
Japheth Dibo, CEO and co-founder of Dial Afrika said, “With this support and mentorship, we aim to revolutionize customer support and equip businesses across the African continent with the tools to thrive and excel.”
Through programs like ‘AI First’, Google supports startups because they know their success is vital to our communities and economy. This idea fits Google’s objective to help startups evolve by providing tools and insights to help them succeed.