Three Nigerian startups have made the list of the first cohort for the ‘Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First’ programme.
The Nigerian startups, who are among the 11 selected from across Africa are Famasi Africa, a startup that is building the OS for pharmacies in emerging markets; Izifin, a Nigerian company providing an end-to-end credit infrastructure via API for small businesses; and Vzy, which is revolutionising website building with AI-driven tools that craft sites in mere minutes.
Google said the 11 startups, picked from a vast pool of innovative talent, are using cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence to address both Africa’s challenges and broader global issues.
According to Google, the selected startups will undergo a 10-week accelerator journey.
The tech company further noted that beyond benefiting from Google’s AI expertise and a $350,000 allocation in Google Cloud Credits, the startups will also benefit from mentorship sessions, technical guidance, and networking opportunities to enhance their reach and impact.
Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa at Google, Folarin Aiyegbusi, said:
“At Google, we’ve been working on AI for over a decade, and we’ve shown how useful AI is in our products and for developers externally. AI is not only a powerful enabler, it’s also a major platform shift. That’s why we’re focused on making it easy and scalable for others to innovate with AI.
“Our chosen startups for the ‘AI-First program embody this vision, leveraging AI in pioneering ways to address both local and global challenges. We’re here excited to support and amplify their impact.”
On his part, the CEO/Co-founder of Famasi Africa, Adeola Ayoola, said: “Famasi Africa is scaling AI-powered digital health solutions to reach more underserved communities. Joining the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program represents a significant step towards realising that dream. With Google’s mentorship, we’re confident of scaling our solutions, reaching more pharmacies, and ultimately improving healthcare outcomes.”
Other startups selected from Africa include Avalon Health (South Africa); Chatbots Africa (Ghana); Dial Afrika Inc. and Fastagger Inc., (Kenya); and TeGarri Logistics (Ethiopia).
Others are Lengo AI (Senegal), Logistify AI (Uganda), and Anlescopepe (Ethiopia).
