Investing in Innovation Africa (i3) is currently seeking out top healthtech startups to participate in its 3rd cohort. This initiative, funded by a consortium of global healthcare organizations including the Gates Foundation, MSD, Cencora, Endless Foundation, HELP Logistics (a subsidiary of the Kühne Foundation), Sanofi’s Global Health Unit, and Chemonics, aims to support African startups in commercializing and scaling their health-related offerings.
Selected startups will have access to a range of invaluable resources to help prepare them for expansion, including flexible grants, introductions to potential customers, and personalized guidance to facilitate partnership deals. The program is looking to onboard a total of 15 startups for this cohort, with a focus on 10 early-stage startups innovating in healthcare delivery or product distribution, as well as 5 growth-stage startups specializing in pharmacy care.
Early-stage startups will receive a $50,000 grant, while growth-stage startups will receive a $225,000 grant to help unlock major partnerships that can enhance patient access across the continent. The ultimate goal is to facilitate at least 150 relationships with key healthcare organizations, amounting to at least $30 million in value, which will not only expand patient access but also create valuable local job opportunities.
Applications for the 3rd cohort are currently open and will remain so until February 28th. Interested startups can apply through the official i3 website. The selected startups will be announced on April 30th. In just two years since its inception, i3 has already supported 60 African health innovators across 16 countries, with a notable emphasis on gender and linguistic diversity.
The program has provided $3 million in direct grants, facilitated 450 strategic connections, and resulted in over $11 million in contracted partnerships, expanded reach, and the creation of nearly 1,000 jobs, with half of them being held by women. i3 is coordinated by Salient Advisory and Solina Center for Research and Development (SCIDaR).
Testimonials from previous participants, like Oghenetega Iortim, CEO of Figorr, highlight the significant impact of the program. Figorr, a company providing end-to-end supply chain tracking technology, partnered with the Nigerian government to track over 200 million health products. Through i3, Figorr connected with major global customers, opening doors for expansion and increased impact.
If you’re a healthtech startup looking to make a difference in the African healthcare landscape, consider applying for i3’s 3rd cohort before the February 28 deadline. Don’t miss the chance to access crucial resources, forge important partnerships, and scale your impact across the continent.
