Google for Startups will host a 12-week program starting in March to support selected female-led startups from across Africa.
Google, the global tech giant, has announced the launch of its inaugural Google for Startups Accelerator: Women Founders Africa Program. The Program aims to empower and support female founders by providing them with resources and opportunities to scale tech startups in order to address the problems the continent faces.
Google for Startups Accelerator: Women Founders Africa Program
The Program is a 12-week course starting in March that will include one bootcamp each month, held through online and in-person sessions. Selected startups will benefit from access to Google’s products, mentoring from industry experts, resources, tools, technology and more. In addition, Google will provide the founders with networking opportunities and connections with investors.
“We are excited about the open call for applications for our 3-month accelerator program, specifically tailored to address the unique challenges faced by women founders in Africa. We believe that investing in women founders in Africa is critical for economic empowerment that will enable the creation of jobs for the growing African youth population,” said Folarin Aiyegbusi, head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa at Google.
Challenges for women in business
Female founders face particular difficulty in accessing funding, with women-founded startups attracting just 1.3% of the total funding raised in the MENA region last year. However, according to Google, women make up a significant proportion of African entrepreneurs, with 58% percent of businesses in Africa owned by women.
“Elevating the participation and leadership of women in the entrepreneurship ecosystem is crucial for promoting gender equality and driving economic growth in Africa. Investing in women-led startups is a key step towards achieving this goal, and Google’s commitment to these goals is reflected in the launch of the Google for Startups Accelerator: Women Founders Africa Program,” said Aiyegbusi.
The application process
Female founders of tech startups operating in Africa, or addressing African issues, can apply the program here. All applications must be submitted by Monday, February 20.
In order to apply, interested startups must have a working product or service, a viable business model and a working team.
As part of the application process, startups must submit a written application and undergo an interview with the program team.
Successful applicants will be mentored by industry experts who will provide guidance and support for the program’s duration.
Supporting female African founders
Akua Nyame-Mensah, a mentor working with the program said, “It’s an honor to be a mentor in the inaugural Google for Startups Accelerator Program for Women Founders. As part of supporting the next generation of leaders in Africa, this program offers women an opportunity to grow their networks and the accountability to achieve their professional goals. The focus on mentorship will be invaluable. Participants will benefit and grow from the exchange of ideas and experiences.”
The Google for Startups Accelerator Women Founders Africa Program is an extension of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program established in 2017. According to Google, the program is part of its commitment to supporting startups and addressing the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Africa.