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An Unmissable Opportunity for African Healthtech Innovators
Investing in Innovation Africa (i3) is inviting African healthtech startups to participate in its highly anticipated third cohort, offering an unparalleled chance to scale innovative healthcare solutions across the continent. This pan-African initiative, backed by a consortium of global healthcare heavyweights, has opened applications for startups that are driving innovation in healthcare delivery, pharmacy care, and product distribution. Applications are open until February 28, 2025, with selected participants to be announced on April 30, 2025.
Why i3 Matters for African Healthtech Startups
Africa’s healthtech sector holds immense promise, with startups playing a pivotal role in solving challenges such as access to medicines, healthcare delivery in underserved regions, and supply chain inefficiencies. However, scaling these solutions often requires funding, partnerships, and mentorship—resources that are difficult to secure. This is where i3 steps in. Over the past two years, the initiative has empowered 60 startups across 16 African countries, providing: $3 million in direct grants, 450 strategic connections with global healthcare organizations, facilitation of $11 million in contracted partnerships, and the creation of nearly 1,000 jobs, with 43% women-led ventures and 20% Francophone-led ventures.
What’s on Offer for Startups?
The third cohort will feature 15 startups split across two categories:
- Early-Stage Startups:
- Focus: Innovating in healthcare delivery or product distribution.
- Grant: $50,000 flexible funding.
- Growth-Stage Startups:
- Focus: Transforming pharmacy care.
- Grant: $225,000 flexible funding.
Beyond funding, selected startups will gain access to introductions to major healthcare customers to secure partnerships, tailored support to close deals that expand their reach, and facilitation of 150+ strategic relationships with healthcare stakeholders, potentially unlocking $30 million in value.
Success Stories from i3 Alumni
The impact of i3 can be seen in the success stories of its alumni. Figorr, a Nigeria-based company offering end-to-end supply chain tracking technology, exemplifies the program’s potential. “We partnered with the Nigerian government to track over 200 million health products. Through i3, we connected with major global customers who expanded Figorr’s impact in Nigeria and beyond. We’re grateful to i3 for opening these doors,” shares Oghenetega Iortim, CEO of Figorr. The program’s emphasis on enabling partnerships, particularly with global organizations, ensures startups not only scale but also contribute to improved patient access, job creation, and economic growth in Africa.
Building a Foundation for Africa’s Healthtech Future
i3’s third cohort is funded by leading global organizations, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, MSD, Cencora, Endless Foundation, HELP Logistics, Sanofi’s Global Health Unit, and Chemonics. These partnerships reflect a strong commitment to building a robust healthtech ecosystem in Africa. Dr. Uchenna Igbokwe, CEO of the Solina Center for Research and Development (SCIDaR), highlights the broader vision: “With the right resources, African-led companies can scale commercially while reaching underserved communities and creating jobs. The i3 program has proven that an engaged network of global institutions can empower African innovators to solve critical healthcare challenges.”
Key Information for Applicants
- Applications Deadline: February 28, 2025
- Virtual Q&A Session: February 21, 2025 (for applicants to seek guidance)
- Announcement of Selected Startups: April 30, 2025
To apply, visit innovationsinafrica.com/application.
