Nineteen startups from across the continent have been selected to take part in the AfriTech XYZ virtual accelerator programme, which will see them benefit from training in go-to-market strategies, networking and mentoring.
AfriTech XYZ is an initiative run by Do it Now Now, which works with Africa-based startups to help them reach new networks and grow. It is a free to join, equity-free programme for pre-seed and seed-stage companies run in partnership with Google, F6S, Lagos Innovates, BongoHive, iSpace Foundation, PYPR, Strand Sahara and Academy London.
Hundreds of applications were received, which have now been whittled down to the final 19 startups. The selected companies will now be connected to key expert know-how, tools, investors and legal support.
Eight of the selected companies are Nigerian, namely lending platform Pay Hippo, shoe sizing app Salubata, ed-tech startup Qataloog, accounting software Novel, student social network Peersview, savings startup Esusu, and agri-tech platforms Every Farmer and MaiFARMLAND.
Four are from Ghana – blockchain-based agri-tech startup Trusteefarm, financial management service Xpendly, waste management app Borla Daakye, and freight forwarding platform Swiftly – and three from Kenya, in the form of ride-sharing solution Hud Hud, ed-tech startup Growd Global, and lending startup Andele.
Uganda is represented by waste management startup Ecoplastile and agri-tech platform IRRISOL, with the list completed by South African rental marketplace Just Float and Zambian insurtech startup Insure Pay.
“It is really exciting to introduce the UK investment community to this group of African founders. Each company presents a truly innovative solution to some of the pressing problems faced by users on the African continent, and in some cases, across the world,” said Bayo Adelaja of Do it Now Now.