The accelerator focuses on supporting and funding the next generation of African innovators, particularly in sectors that can harness the power of artificial intelligence.
FAST Accelerator is a startup accelerator launched, in 2022, by Flapmax, a US-based data and artificial intelligence technology company founded by Dave Ojika, in partnership with Microsoft. It identifies, supports, and funds African innovators building impactful businesses.
“FAST Accelerator represents our commitment to supporting ambitious entrepreneurs who are driving sustainable innovation across the continent of Africa and emerging markets,” said Dave Ojika.
The accelerator’s program combines business development, technology integration, funding, and community-building opportunities to enable African start-ups to grow faster and sustainably.
Through its AI Academy, the accelerator also gives companies access to a pool of specialized talent and its over 500 global partners. It works with a network of venture capital firms to offer funding opportunities for project carriers.
Startups taking part in its program also have access to Microsoft and Flapmax engineering teams to innovate and create new products or offers. They can earn up to $250,000 in cloud credits, including access to the Founders Hub and virtual reality (VR) hardware. They also have access to Microsoft's venture capital network to raise funds and develop their business, among other benefits.
Although open to all technology sectors, FAST Accelerator is particularly interested in start-ups innovating in key areas where AI can be exploited. These include education, manufacturing, fintech, agriculture, and healthcare.
In the first cohort (2022) of the FAST Accelerator program, 12 start-ups were selected and supported. The registration phase for the second cohort of the program, launched in partnership with Intel, closed on August 5, 2023.
FAST Accelerator also organizes hackathons and events such as the AI Builders Day 2023, which took place on April 13. It developed the AI Builders Garage, a platform designed for young entrepreneurs and developers to turn their ideas into sustainable solutions.
Melchior Koba
