Meet the 10 Startups that got into the 8th Google Startup Accelerator program

Daniel Adeyemi -

Google has announced the selection of ten promising startups from across Africa for its eighth Accelerator Africa program. The cohort, chosen from a competitive pool of nearly 1,000 applicants, represents the best of Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa's burgeoning tech scene.

Since its launch in 2018, the program has nurtured a thriving ecosystem, empowering 106 startups from 17 countries. These ventures have collectively raised over $263 million and created more than 2,800 jobs, demonstrating the accelerator's substantial impact on the continent's economic growth.

This year’s cohort places a particular focus on artificial intelligence, reflecting the technology's increasing role in tackling Africa's most pressing challenges.

Meet the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa

  • CDIAL AI (Nigeria): Transforming multilingual communication across Africa with the power of artificial and collective intelligence.
  • Earthbond (Nigeria): Lighting up homes and businesses across Africa with affordable, reliable energy solutions, bolstered by carbon accounting and development finance.
  • Fixxr (South Africa): Putting car owners and businesses in the driver's seat with transparent and convenient on-location vehicle maintenance and repair services.
  • Lifesten Health (Rwanda): Innovating health and wellness through cutting-edge screening and incentive-based programs focused on physical, mental, and nutritional health.
  • MyAIFactchecker (Nigeria): Equipping users with an AI-powered tool to combat misinformation and promote informed decision-making through fact-checking.
  • Nakili (Kenya): Bringing salons, barbershops, and spas into the digital age with a mobile-based app for streamlined management and enhanced customer experiences.
  • NextCounsel (Nigeria): Supercharging lawyer productivity with an AI-powered tool for contract management, solicitor engagement, compliance, and more.
  • Nobuk Africa (Kenya): Simplifying financial management for groups and collectives across Africa with a seamless platform for collecting funds, reconciling payments, and generating reports.
  • Rana Energy (Nigeria): Providing clean, reliable energy solutions to SMEs and communities through a data-driven ecosystem.
  • Triply (Kenya): Building Africa's travel operating system, connecting travellers with seamless booking experiences and travel businesses with powerful management tools.

Over a ten-week period from July 29th to September 20th, 2024, these ten startups will undergo a comprehensive program designed to accelerate their growth. They will gain invaluable insights from Google mentors and experienced entrepreneurs, refine their products through technical workshops, and strengthen their business strategies and leadership capabilities. The program will culminate in preparation for securing follow-on funding through Google's extensive investor network.