Google has chosen five Nigerian startups to join the eighth cohort of its Africa Accelerator Program.

The tech giant Google has selected five Nigerian startups for the eighth cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator. This year’s cohort features ten tech startups from Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa, all leveraging artificial intelligence to address critical issues in sectors such as fintech, climate, health, and more. Following a highly competitive application process that began in April, Nigerian startups represent 50% of the selected participants.

According to Google, the ten startups were chosen from nearly 1,000 applications, underscoring the exceptional talent and innovation within the African tech ecosystem.

The Nigerian startups selected are:

1. CDIAL AI: This startup is revolutionizing multilingual communication throughout Africa by harnessing the capabilities of artificial and collective intelligence.
2. Earthbond: Earthbond is enhancing homes and businesses across Africa with cost-effective and dependable energy solutions, supported by carbon accounting and development finance.
3. MyAIFactchecker: This startup offers an AI-driven tool designed to tackle misinformation and support informed decision-making through comprehensive fact-checking.
4. NextCounsel: NextCounsel boosts legal professionals’ productivity with an AI-powered solution for managing contracts, engaging solicitors, and ensuring compliance.
5. Rana Energy: Rana Energy delivers clean and reliable energy solutions to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and communities through a data-centric ecosystem.

Other African startup selected include:

1. Fixxr: Based in South Africa, Fixxr offers transparent and convenient on-location vehicle maintenance and repair services, empowering car owners and businesses with greater control.
2. Lifesten Health: Hailing from Rwanda, Lifesten Health advances health and wellness through innovative screening and incentive-based programs, addressing physical, mental, and nutritional health.
3. Nakili: This Kenyan startup modernizes salons, barbershops, and spas with a mobile app that streamlines management and enhances customer experiences.
4. Nobuk Africa: Based in Kenya, Nobuk Africa simplifies financial management for groups and collectives across the continent with an intuitive platform for fund collection, payment reconciliation, and report generation.
5. Triply: Also from Kenya, Triply is developing Africa’s travel operating system, providing travelers with smooth booking experiences and offering travel businesses robust management tools.

Future of African Innovation

Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startups Programs for Google in Africa, commented on the selection, stating:

“We are excited to welcome the eighth cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program. These startups symbolize the future of African innovation, leveraging technology to address real-world challenges and enhance their communities. We are dedicated to supporting these founders by providing the necessary resources and mentorship to help them succeed and scale their solutions.”

He highlighted that from July 29th to September 20th, 2024, the ten selected startups will engage in a structured program aimed at fostering their growth.

“They will gain direct access to the expertise of Google mentors and experienced entrepreneurs who have successfully navigated the startup journey.

“The program will include technical workshops to refine their products, develop their business strategies, and bolster their leadership skills. Additionally, it will prepare them to secure follow-on funding from Google’s global network of investors,” he added.

What You Should Know

Since its launch in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program has assisted 106 startups across 17 African countries. According to Google, these startups have collectively secured over $263 million in funding and created more than 2,800 direct jobs, demonstrating the program’s significant impact on the African tech ecosystem.

This year’s cohort emphasizes artificial intelligence, underscoring the increasing role of advanced technologies in tackling Africa’s most urgent issues.