Four Nigerian startups selected for NBA Africa Startup Accelerator Demo Day

NBA Africa has revealed the 10 startups selected for the prestigious Demo Day event as part of its ‘Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator’ programme. Four Nigerian startups are among those chosen to pitch their innovations to a panel of international industry experts on Wednesday, 25 September 2024, at the NBA headquarters in New York.

This accelerator initiative, launched by NBA Africa in April 2024, aims to boost Africa’s technology ecosystem and foster the next generation of African entrepreneurs.

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The selected companies will have the opportunity to secure financial backing and mentorship from NBA Africa and its partners.

Among the standout Nigerian startups are Buzza, which offers digital solutions for sports organisations, and Festival Coins, a no-code event registration and ticketing platform. Also representing Nigeria are Naemo Global, which is set to revolutionise sports scouting with its AI-driven software Afriskaut, and Salubata, an innovative footwear company transforming plastic waste into modular shoes.

The remaining six startups hail from Rwanda, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Ghana, Egypt, and South Africa, representing diverse industries from wearable payment tech to language learning via AI. The top four startups will be awarded financial aid, access to mentorship, and participation in workshops and development programmes.

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NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi expressed excitement about the talent on display, emphasising that the initiative aligns with NBA Africa’s mission to support the growth of Africa’s sports and creative industries.

She said: “We have been inspired by the level of talent and creativity from all of the applicants, and we congratulate the 10 deserving finalists who will showcase their innovative solutions at Demo Day later this month.”

She added that “NBA Africa is committed to supporting the continued growth of startups on the continent, including the four prize-winners whose innovative solutions will further elevate the sport and creative industries in Africa for years to come.”

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The ‘Triple-Double’ programme offers a platform for African entrepreneurs to flourish, providing much-needed capital and mentorship to propel their innovative solutions.

NBA Africa operates as the NBA’s official business affiliate on the continent and plays a vital role in promoting basketball through various initiatives, including the Basketball Africa League (BAL), youth development programmes, and social responsibility campaigns. The Demo Day will mark another milestone in the NBA’s ongoing efforts to support Africa’s burgeoning tech ecosystem and showcase the continent’s entrepreneurial talent on the global stage.

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