FuturizeU supports development of innovative healthcare products in Africa

Futurize and AstraZeneca are investing in social entrepreneurs who are developing innovative products that are addressing healthcare equity and early detection of non-communicable disease (NCD).

The two organisations have officially announced the launch of FuturizeU, a pioneering HealthTech incubator programme that is co-funded by Bristol Myers Squibb. Ten startups with exceptional concepts in Nigeria, Ghana, Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya have been selected for the programme, which will run from from September 12 to November 17, 2023.

FuturizeU aims to support early-stage university startups in Africa’s healthcare sector by equipping them with the necessary tools to navigate the complexities of starting a business. The programme strives to foster innovative solutions that address healthcare equity and early non-communicable disease (NCD) diagnosis challenges in Africa, utilising the untapped potential of the region. The initiative is a part of the A.Catalyst Network, in which AstraZeneca is involved.

Commenting on the accelerator programme, Rhea Singhla, CEO at Futurize, said: “Undoubtedly, incubator programs hold paramount importance for African youth as they are not as readily accessible. These initiatives act as dynamic launchpads, igniting the latent potential of our young entrepreneurs and providing them with the essential tools, mentorship, and resources required to translate their innovative ideas into impactful solutions.”

Leveraging cutting-edge technology like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), FuturizeU accelerates meaningful healthcare advancements while nurturing a fertile ground for innovation. The program welcomes teams from partner universities across Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on university students, alumni, and groups from the previous two Fuel Africa cohorts, all with transformative healthcare startup concepts.

Jonathan Calder, Head of Digital and IT for African Cluster at AstraZeneca, stated, “Our partnership with Futurize is integral to our unwavering commitment to improve health equity and create sustainable impact in Africa. Each day at AstraZeneca, we work hand in hand with diverse stakeholders across Africa to address some of the most pressing healthcare issues our communities face. I am thrilled that through the FuturizeU HealthTech Incubator programme, we will now provide young innovators in Africa an excellent launchpad opportunity to join us in our ambition to deliver pioneering solutions to improve patient outcomes.”

At its core, FuturizeU is a nexus of knowledge sharing, mentorship, and collaboration. Over eight weeks, the program’s curriculum delves into critical startup principles, covering product-market fit, financial strategies, and practical go-to-market approaches. Seasoned advisors and industry experts will guide aspiring entrepreneurs and provide them with networking opportunities, ensuring their ideas flourish.

A standout feature is the opportunity for participants to showcase their startups to a diverse network of industry partners, investors, and stakeholders at the FuturizeU Demo Day in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 17, 2023. This platform bridges funding and collaboration, fuelling growth and sustainable development while fostering the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

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