Seven New African startups, and one from Lesotho, have been selected for the latest edition of Grindstone Africa, a globally recognized technology accelerator dedicated to high-growth entrepreneurship.
Founded in 2013 and co-owned by Knife Capital and Thinkroom Limited, Grindstone is known for helping high-growth and innovation-driven companies scale their businesses. The 2023 programme, funded by Absa, represents the latest edition.
Eight startups have been selected to take part, seven of which are from South Africa and one from Lesotho. South African ventures include Vambo Technologies, which offers users the ability to use world-class, highly advanced artificial intelligence in their native languages. iTorho, which offers a marketplace platform for small businesses, freelancers and professionals to communicate. and Paragon Impact, a global sustainability and technology consulting firm that simplifies their clients’ complex sustainability journey.
Deaftouch are also selected. which provides accessible communication solutions for the deaf and blind communities; Supribuy, an online platform offering e-commerce and retail services. Diginexus, an online learning platform that helps students start a career in software engineering. and Esinam Global Business Services, which provides customized management consulting solutions to public and private organizations.
The cohort is completed by Lesotho’s Chaperone, which acts as an issuer of electronic payment instruments through its platforms.
“We are excited about our partnership with Absa and the opportunities this program offers to selected African startups. The focus on market access readiness is a key differentiator for this program as we drive access to further markets. We believe it will be a catalyst for growth, innovation and prosperity,” said Catherine Young, CEO of Grindstone.