Cardano Accelerator Launches with Nine Startups, Two Africa-Centered

Cardano has officially launched the CV Labs Cardano Accelerator, a 10-week startup program aimed at advancing blockchain solutions built on its ecosystem. Hosted in Switzerland, the accelerator features nine early-stage ventures, two of which are focused on addressing key challenges in Africa.

The program is designed to help startups go beyond Cardano’s internal innovation fund, Project Catalyst, by providing strategic mentorship, technical support, and access to investors.

“This accelerator isn’t just about product development, it’s about enabling real-world adoption of blockchain,” said Giorgio Zinetti, CTO of the Cardano Foundation and one of the program’s mentors.

Two standout startups in the current cohort are tackling African market needs. Landano, based in the U.S., is developing a SaaS platform for land registry and property rights, specifically tailored for use in African countries. The solution aims to bring transparency and efficiency to land administration, a longstanding challenge in many regions across the continent.

Terralima, also U.S.-based, is building a blockchain-powered marketplace that connects African farmers directly with producers and cooperatives. By removing intermediaries, the platform seeks to increase profits for farmers while improving supply chain traceability.

The broader cohort includes startups working on decentralized identity, cloud data ownership, Web3 inheritance, and programmable savings. Participants hail from diverse countries, including Thailand, Finland, North Macedonia, and Portugal.

With over 1,700 blockchain companies, Crypto Valley offers a strong launchpad for blockchain innovation. CV Labs itself supports nearly 200 ventures and plays a key role in expanding Cardano’s footprint globally.

Over the next two months, participating teams will work closely with Cardano Foundation engineers to refine their products, legal structures, and market strategies.