Vodacom Tanzania has concluded the third season of its Digital Accelerator Program, a three-month acceleration program in partnership with MassChallenge and Huawei.
The accelerator started with 20 startups, and from these, seven finalists emerged: MITz Kits, Afya ya Mnyama, Mkanda Salama, Go Go App, SAB Biomanufacturers, Altitude X, and Makonda Renewable Tech.
In a statement, Vodacom Tanzania’s Managing Director, Philip Besiimire, said, “These seven startups have shown that solutions to local challenges lie within our youth, and we are proud to have been a part of their growth. I commend all the finalists and wish them well. The market is ready for your solutions; let’s go make a difference.”
Vodacom Tanzania is committed to supporting startups by providing access to local and international industry experts, training, mentorship, partner networks, and M-PESA services. Coupled with international experience from China and pitch rehearsals with US based Mass Challenge, the 7 startups faced the judges and audience in what was a rigorous and exciting pitching session to present their solutions, following which 3 startups Rose Funja founder of AltituteX, Frank Mussa, Afya Lead Co-Founder and Lusekelo Nkuwi from GO GO App.
Furthermore, the three winners will have the opportunity to travel to the US in September this year. There, they will meet with mentors and potential investors to advance their startups, gaining valuable insights and support for their ventures.
“It has been an honor to partner with Vodacom Tanzania for the Digital Accelerator Program. The dedication and talent of these startups are truly inspiring, and it was a great honor connecting them with both local and international mentors to help guide their journeys. We are excited to see how these entrepreneurs will continue to innovate and drive positive change in their communities,” said Eric Rodriguez from MassChallenge.
MassChallenge connects startups, experts, corporations, and communities to grow and transform businesses and economies. We do this work because entrepreneurship is a uniquely vigorous force in driving progress against humanity’s greatest challenges, creating opportunity for individuals, and generating jobs for our economy. We work across sectors to drive a stronger future through collaborative innovation and support all founders whether they fit or break the traditional venture mold.