NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenya and Nigeria are leading the charge in the eighth cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program.
Out of nearly 1,000 applicants, ten startups from Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa have been selected to participate in this prestigious initiative.
This year’s impressive lineup includes five ventures from Nigeria, three from Kenya, and one each from Rwanda and South Africa.
These startups were chosen for their innovative solutions and potential to drive positive change across the continent.
Notable Kenyan startups making waves include Nakili, which is revolutionizing the salon, barbershop, and spa industries with a cutting-edge mobile app.
Triply, another standout from Kenya, is reshaping travel in Africa by providing a seamless booking experience and robust management tools for travel businesses.
Kenya’s third entry, Nobuk Africa, is simplifying financial management for collectives through its user-friendly fintech platform.
Nigeria’s impressive roster features ventures like CDIAL AI, which is at the forefront of artificial intelligence, and Earthbond, known for its sustainable solutions.
MyAIFactchecker, NextCounsel, and Rana Energy also represent Nigeria with their diverse range of tech-driven solutions.
South Africa’s Fixxr and Rwanda’s Lifesten Health complete the list, showcasing a wide array of technological advancements.
Google Africa’s Head of Startups Programs, Folarin Aiyegbusi, praised the resilience of African entrepreneurs despite the current investment slowdown.
“These startups embody the future of African innovation. They leverage technology to address real-world issues and uplift communities. Our commitment is to provide them with the resources and mentorship they need to scale and succeed,” said Aiyegbusi.
The three-month, equity-free virtual program will offer participants invaluable mentorship, technical resources, and access to a global network of experts and investors.
The structured program aims to refine products, enhance business strategies, and prepare startups for future funding opportunities.
Since its inception in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program has supported 106 startups from 17 countries, leading to over $263 million in raised funds and more than 2,800 direct jobs.
