Google has chosen 11 innovative African startups to participate in its "AI First" program, which will provide them with a total of $350,000 in Google Cloud Credits to bolster their businesses and expand their influence. Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa, explained that these startups were selected from a vast pool of talent that leverages cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) to tackle local and global challenges.
The chosen startups will embark on a 10-week accelerator journey, during which they will benefit not only from Google's AI expertise but also from the substantial allocation of Google Cloud Credits. Additionally, they will have access to mentorship sessions, technical guidance, and networking opportunities to enhance their impact.
Aiyegbusi emphasized Google's long-standing commitment to AI, spanning over a decade, and its dedication to facilitating innovation with AI. The 11 startups chosen for the "AI First" program exemplify this vision by employing AI in groundbreaking ways to address a wide range of challenges, both on a local and global scale. The potential of AI to drive transformation in Africa is underscored by a McKinsey report, which suggests that AI could contribute $1.3 trillion to Africa's Gross Domestic Product by 2030.
Since 2017, Google has consistently supported African startups through various initiatives. Collectively, these startups have managed to secure $263 million in funding and have created over 2,800 job opportunities.
Adeola Ayoola, co-founder of Famasi Africa, one of the selected startups from Nigeria, expressed their commitment to scaling AI-powered digital health solutions to reach underserved communities. Ayoola sees their participation in the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program as a significant step towards realizing this vision. He said, "With Google’s mentorship, we are confident of scaling our solutions, reaching more pharmacies, and ultimately improving healthcare outcomes."
Japheth Dibo, co-founder of Dial Afrika from Kenya, highlighted their aim to revolutionize customer support in Africa with cutting-edge AI-powered solutions. Dibo believes that joining the program will enable their startup to harness advanced AI technology and turn their vision into a reality. He stated, "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."
Among the selected startups are Avalon Health from South Africa, Chatbots Africa from Ghana, Fastagger Inc. from Kenya, Garri Logistics from Ethiopia, Lengo AI from Senegal, and Izifin from Nigeria, among others. This initiative reflects Google's dedication to fostering innovation and driving progress in Africa through the power of AI.
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