Google is following through on their promise to train 10 million people in Africa. They have launched their mentorship programme for app developers and more…
In line with the commitment, Google CEO Sundar Pichai made to support African entrepreneurs earlier this year, which you can read about here, they have launched the Google Developers Launchpad Africa. The new hands-on comprehensive mentorship programme is tailored exclusively to startups based in Africa.
This initiative will operate from a new Google Launchpad Space in Lagos (the first onsite location for the programme outside the US).
The first application period is now open through December 11, 9 am PST and the first class will start in early 2018. More classes will be hosted in 2018 and beyond.
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Be a technology startup.
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Be based in Sub-Saharan Africa and target the African market.
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Have already raised seed funding
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The problem you are trying to solve. How does it create value for users? How are you addressing a real challenge for your home city, country or Africa broadly?
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Will you share what you learn in Silicon Valley for the benefit of other startups in your local ecosystem?
“Anyone who spends time in the African technology space knows that the continent is home to some exciting innovations,” says Andy Volk, Sub-Saharan Africa Ecosystem Regional Manager.“Over the years, Google has worked with some incredible startups across Africa, tackling everything from healthcare, education, streamlining e-commerce to improving the food supply chain. We very much look forward to welcoming the first cohort of innovators for Launchpad Africa and continue to work together to drive innovation in the African market.”
“While there have been plenty of amazing apps built in South Africa, the process of monetising them was never as smooth as we knew it could be,” says Luke McKend, Google South Africa’s Country Director.“By allowing local developers to monetise their products on the Play Store, we’re underscoring how serious we are about digitally empowering South Africans.