Qualcomm has today announced the 10 shortlisted startups for Qualcomm Make in Africa 2024. It is an equity-free mentorship program that finds promising early-stage startups that use advanced connectivity and processing technologies such as 5G, Edge-AI/ML, Compute, and IoT to innovative end-to-end systems solutions, including hardware.
According to Qualcomm, the shortlisted startups have shown exceptional potential in applying advanced connectivity and processing technologies to innovative end-to-end systems solutions. They will receive free mentorship, business coaching access to engineering consultation for product development, and guidance on protecting intellectual property.
The 10 shortlisted startups are:
- Aurora Health from Kenya provides AI-based cardiovascular health care tools.
- CropScan from Kenya uses solar-powered smart farming IoT devices.
- Cure Bionics from Tunisia makes smart 3D printed prosthetic arms.
- DevisionX from Egypt provides AI-based low-code computer vision tools.
- Kalio from Cameroon is building AI tools for Agricultural IoT
- Kitovu from Nigeria provides tools and software for smart agricultural warehouse management.
- NextAI Studios from Kenya builds AI-based emotion detection into toys for children’s mental healthcare.
- RIM Nextgen from Kenya, uses smart tools for monitoring propane consumption.
- Sparcx from South Africa uses AI for enhancing radar signal processing.
- Vizmerald from Tunisia is working on AI-based textile industry inspection.
“I am thrilled with the overwhelming response to the Africa Innovation Platform this year,” said Alex Rogers, President, QTL & Global Affairs, Qualcomm Incorporated. “The quality and diversity of the applications received reflect the immense talent and potential within Africa’s technology ecosystem. We are excited to work with the shortlisted startups and provide them with the necessary resources and support to drive innovation and create a positive impact in their communities.”
Program Benefits
- Mentorship: Participating startups will benefit from 1:1 mentorship sessions with Qualcomm leaders on a regular cadence. Mentorship sessions will not only guide startups through the intricacies of product development. They also offer valuable insights into navigating the complex world of business.
- Skilling: The program includes masterclasses covering essential aspects of startup growth, including product management, pitch clinics, intellectual property rights (IPR), and hardware architecture. These sessions are tailored to equip entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to steer their ventures towards success.
- Visibility: Startups enrolled in the program will have the opportunity to showcase their innovations during a dedicated Demo Day. Here, they can connect with various industry leaders, venture capitalists, investors, and other accelerators. This exposure is invaluable for startups seeking partnerships and funding to scale their operations.
Read: Kenyan Startups Among 10 Selected for Qualcomm’s Make in Africa Mentorship Program