14 Ghanaian startups selected for MEST Express Accelerator
The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST)- a pan-African training programme, seed fund and incubator for technology entrepreneurs in Africa, providing critical skills training in software development, business and communications, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, has announced the admission of 14 startups for the first 2021 cohort of its MEST Express accelerator. Admitted startups will benefit from free training, tailored mentorship and have the opportunity to receive up to $10,000 in equity-free grant funding.
MEST was launched in 2008 to grant startups access to a global network and the opportunity to build the next generation of global software companies. The MEST Express Accelerator was launched virtually in September 2020 in response to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on early-stage ventures in Ghana.
The 14 startups were selected from over 180 applicants and parts of the benefits for admitted startups include a range of business content for the startups, explicitly focusing on exploring business models and product pivots, improving risk and crises resilience, and becoming investment ready. Secondarily, the accelerators program will contribute to the growing need for job creation for Ghanaian youths.
The MEST Express program manager Felix Darko has opined that the primary motive of the program which is to provide an enabling environment for young entrepreneurs to shape, transform and scale their operations will contribute immensely to building an ecosystem of thriving businesses able to provide fulfilling work for many young Ghanaians now and in the future.
The 14 admitted startups include:
Ticketmiller – a ticketing platform for events and experiences
Africa Global Radio – an online radio and multimedia studio producing diverse content aimed at the African continent and the diaspora
Roots Digital – a logistics and eCommerce solution platform
Wi-flix – an online live streaming and video on demand site
BlowApp – an advertising platform that connects advertisers to Social Media influencers
Casting Africa – a casting platform and talent directory focused on connecting talents to jobs
Ogaliya – a startup that provides all-inclusive digitalization support with little to no technical involvement of the business owner
Klingbo – a management and learning system for educational courses, training programs and development programs
Plugnom – Web service provider for local businesses and brands
Dobiison VR – a startup that provides interactive virtual tours and dynamic digital experiences in the hospitality sector
Tendo – a social commerce platform that enables social media users to sell online without investing any capital
Stabus – a mobile app and USSD shortcode service that connects passengers with private and AC buses
Kadi – a Fintech solution that enables informal logistics providers in the construction, mining, and oil & gas to earn more, get paid quickly, and grow their business
Eazyloop – an AI powered procurement solution for businesses, with a focus on fast-moving consumable goods industry (FMCGs)
The partnership between MEST the Mastercard Foundation looks to create an enabling environment for young entrepreneurs to shape, transform and scale their operations will contribute immensely to build a business thriving ecosystem in Ghana.