• AI firm Flapmax has partnered with Microsoft to launch the second edition of its startup accelerator programme.
• The programme will see a host of African startups from more than 25 countries taking part in a virtual training boot camp.
• The ten best startups will head to Silicon Valley for a five-week training course.

The world of artificial intelligence (AI) has been earmarked as the next big thing in technology. Not just an innovation capable of expanding human potential, but as one that makes investors very happy. The unbound success of Open AI, and the parade of Big Tech that followed in its generative wake shows the truth of this.

According to Linda Saunders, solutions engineer at the South African arm of international megacorp Salesforce, there is a growing concern among African companies that they will be left out of the AI revolution.

Some firms are hoping to turn this around. This includes AI firm Flapmax, which is launching the second edition of its FAST Accelerator programme. A boot camp initiative designed to support and fund the next generation of innovative companies and entrepreneurs throughout the African continent.

Startups from 25 African nations have already applied to join this year’s iteration of the programme, with over 800 startups showing interest in the Microsoft-backed initiative.

Applications open for this year’s edition of the FAST Accelerator in July, and only African startups will be eligible. Applicants will be considered if they are prepared to scale or expand throughout the continent, and have demonstrated established product-market fit and revenue generation.

The program is prioritizing business-to-business startups for this cohort, with the areas of healthcare, fintech, Edutech, and industrials/agritech of particular interest. Sustainability and deeptech startups are also encouraged to apply.

In terms of the boot camp itself, participants need not fear travel fees as the entire event will be held virtually in August 2023.

“The journey begins with an intensive virtual boot camp designed to validate startup ideas, refine business models, and prepare founders for the next stage of growth,” Flapmax explains.

The top ten startups to participate in the FAST Accelerator 2023 boot camp will be selected for a five-week program in Silicon Valley, California, to forge relationships with industry experts, potential investors, and global partners through Flapmax’s network of over 600 corporate partners.

“FAST Accelerator represents our commitment to supporting ambitious entrepreneurs who are driving sustainable innovation across the continent of Africa and emerging markets,” said Dr Dave Ojika, CEO of Flapmax.

“Through this comprehensive program, we are dedicated to connecting startup founders with a global community, industry-leading technology, and the essential startup funding necessary to forge the path towards local, sustainable, and AI-powered technological solutions of the future. Together, we unite in building a brighter future for Africa and the world, fueled by the transformative power of technology and innovation.”

According to a press release sent to Hypertext, the FAST Accelerator initiative combines business development, technology integration, funding opportunities, and community building to empower startup companies based in Africa and other emerging markets where sustainable businesses are key.

It also provides dedicated venture funding and mentorship opportunities to these African startups.

Last year’s top 10 includes startups from Nigeria, Uganda, Namibia, Kenya, Egypt and Tanzania.

“The technology and business masterclasses offered through Flapmax Learn were truly exceptional, and the invaluable network of mentors and advisors has played a significant role in our growth. With the successful raise of $500 000, we are poised to scale our cutting-edge HCM solutions across the continent, catering to both SMEs and large corporations,” enthused stated Lekan Omotosho, co-founder and CTO of Kenya’s Pade.

“Through FAST’s support, we have gained access to critical infrastructure, enabling us to deploy our services at scale. Working in conjunction with Microsoft and Azure services and partnering with hospitals in Kenya, we are determined to deliver equitable and affordable healthcare to tens of thousands of SMEs and health centers across Africa, creating a lasting impact on the healthcare landscape,” added Edwin Lubanga, co-founder and CTO of Snark Health, a fellow Kenyan startup.

Those interested in applying can do so here.

[Image – Photo by Marvin Meyer on Unsplash]