Askya AI Growth Platform Seeks Innovative Startups Across Africa

Askya AI Investment Partners has announced the opening of applications for its 2026 AI Growth Platform, a comprehensive six-week program designed to accelerate promising African AI startups. The program aims to equip these companies with the tools and resources needed to strengthen their offerings, secure customers, and scale effectively.

The Askya AI Growth Platform provides a unique opportunity for ten selected startups to receive intensive support across multiple critical areas, including product-market fit validation, business growth strategies, corporate partnership development, and access to essential technology infrastructure. Notably, the program is offered free of charge and takes no equity from participants. ## Program Highlights:

  • Personalized Coaching: Weekly one-on-one sessions with founders and operators who have built companies valued at over $100 million
  • Strategic Workshops & Masterclasses: Focused on practical skills for scaling AI businesses
  • Corporate Access: Structured meetups with organizations seeking to test and deploy AI solutions
  • Technical Support: Assistance with building, training, and deploying AI models
  • Infrastructure Resources: Access to cloud computing power (including GPUs) through technology partnerships
  • Showcase Opportunity: Presentation at Moonshot by TechCabal in Lagos before a large audience of industry leaders

Askya will continue supporting participating startups with corporate contract navigation throughout 2026. The most promising startup could also receive up to $200,000 in additional investment from Askya (separate from program participation). ## Who Should Apply?

The program is ideal for African-based AI startups that:

  • Have a live product with paying customers or active pilots
  • Are at the stage between MVP and Series A funding
  • Focus on solving real problems in African markets
  • Demonstrate strong execution capabilities and continental scaling potential

Applications are open to both companies building AI products directly and those leveraging AI as a core growth driver. The deadline for applications is September 30, 2026.