Microsoft-backed FAST Accelerator Open For Applications to Boost African Startups

Flapmax has announced the launch of the second FAST Accelerator program with the aim of supporting and funding the next generation of innovative companies and entrepreneurs across Africa. Building on the success of the inaugural program where more than 800 startups from 25+ countries applied to join, FAST Accelerator 2023 offers a transformative experience for startup founders seeking to scale rapidly and sustainably.

In partnership with Microsoft, the FAST Accelerator initiative combines business development, technology integration, funding opportunities, and community building to empower startup companies based in Africa and emerging markets to deliver sustainable solutions. It also provides dedicated venture funding and invaluable mentorship opportunities.

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

Startup leaders are encouraged to apply (LINK OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS) to FAST Accelerator this July. To be eligible, startups must be based in Africa, 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/agtech of particular interest. Sustainability and deep-tech startups are also encouraged to apply.

Program participants must be available and committed for the entire duration of the program, which includes a two-week virtual bootcamp in August 2023, followed by a five-week accelerator program in October in California, U.S. The journey will begin with an intensive virtual bootcamp designed to validate startup ideas, refine business models, and prepare founders for the next stage of growth.

The top ten (10) startups will be selected to join a five-week accelerator program which will be done physically in Silicon Valley, California to experience unparalleled acceleration, forge relationships with industry experts, network, and fundraising opportunities from potential investors while immersing themselves in the dynamic startup ecosystem of Silicon Valley.

Some of the alumni have praised the program for their startup’s success;

Lekan Omotosho, co-founder and CTO of Pade said they were delighted to have participated in the transformative FAST Accelerator program in 2022. “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.”

Edwin Lubanga, co-founder and CTO of Snark Health said that the program helped them gain access to critical infrastructure that enabled them to deploy their 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.”

Innocent Orikiiriza, founder, and CEO of KaCyber Technologies said because of the FAST Accelerator, they have developed a comprehensive sustainability framework that now underpins their business operations, emphasizing the vital importance of sustainability in the public transport sector. “Our collaboration with FAST Accelerator has opened doors to an extraordinary opportunity, one that I fully endorse,” he remarks.

Applications are open (LINK OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS) until the end of this month. Interested startup founders can apply for this opportunity.