NBA Africa has announced the second edition of the startup accelerator program, the second to what was launched last year.
NBA Africa aims to support the continent’s technology ecosystem and the next generation of African entrepreneurs. The NBA Africa Triple-Double Accelerator awards financial support and mentorship to early-stage African startup companies that develop solutions in the sport and creative industries.
According to NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi, “Last year’s inaugural Triple-Double Accelerator program showed how much talent, passion and creativity there is among African entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of the continent’s rapidly growing sport and entertainment industries. We look forward to reviewing this year’s submissions and to helping another round of promising startups take the next step in their development.”
Once again, the accelerator will be operated by ALX Ventures, a tech incubator that provides the continent’s tech leaders with access to the skills and tools to launch and scale their startups.
Until Friday, Aug. 29, startups can apply to participate at https://tripledoubleaccelerator.nba.com after which the submissions will be narrowed down to a top 10.
The shortlisted startups will then participate in a 10-week mentorship program where they will be paired with mentors comprised of NBA Africa, ServiceNow and ALX leadership, as well as other corporate stakeholders, who will provide guidance to the companies with a focus on product development, business growth and go-to-market strategy.
The startups will then pitch their products to international industry leaders at the program’s second Demo Day in December, where the top five prize-winning companies will be selected to receive financial support and mentorship.
Last year, more than 700 early-stage African startups applied to the program. Ten finalists were then selected to pitch their products to a panel of international industry leaders at the program’s first Demo Day at the NBA headquarters in New York City, after which four prize-winning companies – Festival Coins (Nigeria), Salubata (Nigeria), HustleSasa (Kenya) and UBR VR (Egypt) – were awarded financial support and mentorship.
Additional information about the Demo Day in December will be announced at a later date.