Investing in Innovation Africa (i3) has announced the opening of applications for its third cohort, inviting African healthtech startups to benefit from its comprehensive program designed to enable commercialization and scale. The initiative, funded by a network of prominent global sponsors including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, MSD, Cencora, and others, aims to provide 15 selected startups with flexible grants, strategic connections, and tailored counsel to drive partnerships and expand patient access across the continent.
Program Details
i3 will select a total of 15 startups for the third cohort, divided into two categories:
- 10 early-stage startups focusing on healthcare delivery or product distribution, with each receiving a $50,000 grant.
- 5 growth-stage startups innovating in pharmacy care, each awarded a $225,000 grant to help unlock significant partnerships.
In addition to funding, i3 seeks to facilitate at least 150 strategic relationships with key healthcare organizations, collectively valued at over $30 million. These collaborations are expected to significantly improve patient access while creating sustainable jobs, with a focus on local communities.
Application Timeline
- Applications are open now and will close on February 28, 2025.
- Selected startups will be announced on April 30, 2025.
- A virtual Q&A session is scheduled for February 21, 2025, to address queries about the application process.
Interested startups can apply via the official platform: innovationsinafrica.com/application.
Proven Impact of i3
Since its inception, i3 has achieved notable success:
- $3 million in direct grants distributed to 60 startups across 16 African countries.
- A diverse pool of innovators, with 43% women-led and 20% Francophone-led ventures.
- 450 strategic connections facilitated, resulting in over $11 million in contracted partnerships, expanded reach, and nearly 1,000 jobs created — half of them held by women.
The program has demonstrated the potential of African-led health innovations in addressing the continent’s healthcare challenges, as highlighted by Dr. Uchenna Igbokwe, CEO of SCIDaR:
“With the right resources, African-led companies can scale commercially while reaching underserved communities and creating jobs. i3 has proven that an actively engaged network of global health institutions can empower African innovators to solve critical healthcare problems.”
Testimonials from Alumni
Participants from previous cohorts have praised the program’s impact. Oghenetega Iortim, CEO of Figorr, shared:
“Through i3, we partnered with the Nigerian government to track over 200 million health products. We also connected with global customers eager to expand Figorr’s impact beyond Nigeria. i3 opened doors we couldn’t have accessed otherwise.”
Sponsors and Partners
i3 is supported by a coalition of influential sponsors, including:
- Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation: Focused on improving healthcare outcomes globally.
- MSD (Merck & Co., Inc.): Committed to advancing medicines, vaccines, and health solutions.
- Cencora (formerly AmerisourceBergen): Providing pharmaceutical solutions globally.
- Sanofi’s Global Health Unit: Addressing healthcare needs in underserved regions.
- Endless Foundation: Leveraging technology to enhance healthcare systems.
- HELP Logistics: Advancing supply chain and logistics expertise for improved healthcare delivery.
- Chemonics International: A global development firm enabling sustainable solutions.
The program is coordinated by Salient Advisory and the Solina Center for Research and Development (SCIDaR), with support from leading tech hubs like CcHUB and Villgro Africa during the cohort selection process.
Conclusion
The i3 program offers a transformative opportunity for African healthtech startups to scale their innovations, forge critical partnerships, and drive systemic change in healthcare delivery. With its strong track record and robust network of global sponsors, i3 continues to play a pivotal role in advancing healthcare access and creating impactful solutions across the continent.
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