Resilience17, which was previously known as Berrywood, has introduced a new AI-focused accelerator called Go Time AI. This accelerator is designed to support African startups working on artificial intelligence products by providing funding of up to $200,000 and mentorship in exchange for 8% equity ownership.
The first cohort of the Go Time AI accelerator was launched to offer financial support, technical resources, and guidance from industry experts to selected startups. These startups will receive funding in stages, starting with an initial $25,000 and potentially up to $175,000 in subsequent rounds. The program includes access to cloud computing credits and API services to assist in building, testing, and scaling AI products.
The aim of Go Time AI is to help African startups overcome challenges related to access to capital, infrastructure, and technical expertise in the field of artificial intelligence. By bridging this gap, the accelerator intends to empower startups to develop and scale competitive AI products.
The accelerator operates without a dedicated fund and draws from Resilience17’s $35 million fund pool. It is open to accepting more startups and does not have a fixed cohort size. The program kicks off with a week in Lagos, followed by a four-month curriculum designed to provide founders with hands-on learning and mentorship.
One of the core components of the accelerator is Office Hours, where founders engage in detailed discussions on critical aspects of their startups, such as technical development, product strategy, and growth tactics. Participants also benefit from in-person Demo Nights every two weeks, where they showcase progress, receive feedback, and engage with investors and mentors.
The first cohort of Go Time AI included startups like Catlog, Sahel AI, Tyms, AI Teacha, and FriendNPal, which received funding and support to further develop their AI products. The accelerator has received positive feedback from participating founders, who noted improvements in various areas such as storytelling, financial modeling, and product development.
Applications for the second cohort of Go Time AI are set to open in May 2025, continuing the initiative’s mission to nurture and elevate African startups in the AI industry.