Grace Ashiru
In support of President Biden’s Digital Transformation with Africa Initiative and building on the U.S. Department of Commerce-wide Africa strategy, NBA Africa today announced the launch of “Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator,” a startup accelerator based on the continent focused on early-stage African startup companies.
The Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator, operated by ALX Ventures, is a pivotal initiative aimed at fostering the growth of Africa’s tech ecosystem and nurturing the next wave of tech entrepreneurs on the continent. This program offers vital resources, including mentorship and capital, to bolster early-stage startups focused on transforming the sports and creative industries through innovative solutions in event management, ticketing, youth development, AI, and digital marketing.
Startups interested in participating have until Friday, May 31, to apply at TripleDoubleAccelerator.NBA.com. After the application deadline, the submissions will be reviewed and narrowed down to the top 10 contenders. These selected startups will be matched with mentors from NBA Africa, ALX leadership, and other key corporate figures, who will assist in product development, business expansion, and crafting effective market entry strategies.
In a significant event scheduled for September, coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, NBA Africa will host a Demo Day. During this event, the participating companies will present their products to a distinguished panel of industry leaders from the U.S., Africa, and globally. This panel will select four winning startups, which will receive financial backing, ongoing mentorship, and opportunities to collaborate with NBA Africa and the Basketball Africa League (BAL) on projects across the continent.
NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi announced the launch of an innovative accelerator program during her appearance alongside U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo and U.S. Trade and Development Agency Director Enoh T. Ebong at the American Chamber of Commerce’s Business Summit in Nairobi, Kenya.
“We are excited to introduce a pioneering accelerator program that will be situated on the continent, targeting early-stage African startups,” Akamanzi expressed. “This new initiative is a testament to our dedication to nurturing the African sports ecosystem, positioning these remarkable companies at the cutting edge of transforming the sports landscape across the continent.”
Further details about the Triple-Double: NBA Africa Startup Accelerator will be revealed in the future.
