US-based data and AI technology company Flapmax has opened applications for African entrepreneurs to join its second FAST Accelerator programme, which is backed by Microsoft.

The programme is designed to support and fund the next generation of innovative companies and entrepreneurs throughout the African continent.

In partnership with Microsoft, the FAST Accelerator initiative combines business development, technology integration, funding opportunities and community building to empower Africa-based start-ups and emerging markets to deliver sustainable solutions.

It also provides dedicated venture funding and mentorship opportunities. The top 10 FAST Accelerator 2023 start-up participants will be selected for a five-week programme in Silicon Valley, California.

Flapmax says this allows the start-ups to forge relationships with industry experts, potential investors and global partners through its ecosystem of over 600 corporate partners.

Start-up leaders are encouraged to apply to the FAST Accelerator programme this month, Flapmax said.

To be eligible, start-ups must be based in Africa, prepared to scale or expand throughout the continent and have demonstrated established product-market fit and revenue generation.

The programme is prioritising business-to-business start-ups for this cohort, with the areas of healthcare, fintech, edutech and industrials/agtech of particular interest.

Dr Dave Ojika, CEO of Flapmax, said: “FAST Accelerator represents our commitment to supporting ambitious entrepreneurs who are driving sustainable innovation across the continent of Africa and emerging markets.

"Through this comprehensive programme, we are dedicated to connecting start-up founders with a global community, industry-leading technology and the essential start-up funding necessary to forge the path towards local, sustainable and AI-powered technological solutions of the future.

“Together, we unite in building a brighter future for Africa and the world, fuelled by the transformative power of technology and innovation.”

The company said programme participants must be available and committed for the entire duration of the programme, which includes a two-week virtual bootcamp in August 2023, followed by a five-week accelerator programme in October in California.

It added: “The journey begins with an intensive virtual bootcamp designed to validate start-up ideas, refine business models and prepare founders for the next stage of growth.

“Next, the top start-ups are selected to join a five-week accelerator programme on the ground in Silicon Valley to experience unparalleled acceleration, networking and fundraising opportunities, while immersing themselves in the dynamic start-up ecosystem of Silicon Valley.”