Rwanda’s Think accelerator (brought to the world by mobile network operators Tigo and Millicom), earlier this year called for applications to fill its first batch of African startups. Out of 150 applications, the initiative has finally settled on four exciting tech companies that will be given the chance to scale across the continent.
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The selected startups have access to US$15 000 in funding, the massive Tigo telecom’s networks across the region, mentorship and further training in Kigali, Rwanda.
In the announcement, general manager of Tigo Rwanda Tongai Maramba said all the finalists showed tremendous potential:
The companies we have selected for Think show innovation in a crowded playing field. The founders are smart, determined and have the potential to scale their firms across the continent. After a rigorous review process, we have selected companies that demonstrate incredible promise.
Beliaa (Egypt)
Beliaa is a mobile application for Road Assistance, using GPS Location services, and provides traffic tracking and other transportation information features. The company was founded in 2012 by Amgad Morgan, and has quickly been gaining user traction in Cairo.
Cribpark (Nigeria)
Cribpark offers a platform for real estate matching, home design, and architecture, and connects homeowners to an array of valuable goods and services. Co-founded by Dare O. Pius and Oaldapo Ayo, the team of eight is building a one-stop shop for African housing items for a local context.
PollAfrique (Ghana)
PollAfrique is a research platform for Africa, allowing respondents to participate in incentivized surveys via a number of online channels. Developed out of Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (M.E.S.T.) in Ghana. CEO Samuel Dzidzornu leads a strong team that will bring a new perspective on big data. Recently featured on CNBC, PollAfrique has been highlighted as a “Venture of Pan-African Significance”.
TorQue (Rwanda)
TorQue delivers channel management software for wholesale distributors in the beverage and telecommunications industries and is designed to run the entire distribution business. Founded in Kigali by Jean Niyotwagira, the company has some traction with large-scale beverage distributors, and is looking to expand.
