Google has announced $350,000 in cloud credits to aid African startups leveraging AI to address local challenges.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the tech giant revealed that the support would be provided through the ninth cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa, a three-month program offering technical mentorship and access to global investors.
The statement noted that 15 startups were chosen from nearly 1,500 applications across the continent.
According to Google, Nigeria topped the list with six startups focused on areas such as digital health, credit checks, global payments, importation, software testing, and fraud detection.
The remaining startups, drawn from Kenya, Ghana, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Senegal, and South Africa, are applying AI-driven solutions to industries like agriculture, healthcare, logistics, and financial services.
Folarin Aiyegbusi, head of startup ecosystem for Africa at Google, emphasised the company’s dedication to empowering African founders.
“African startups are at the forefront of solving critical challenges across the continent,” he stated.
“This program reflects our belief that AI can be transformative when shaped by those who understand the context deeply.”
He further expressed excitement about supporting these startups as they work toward creating impact and fostering an inclusive AI ecosystem across Africa.
