The Nigeria Artificial Intelligence Research (NAIR) scheme has selected 45 startups from various sectors to receive N5 million each in grants from the government, totaling an impressive N225 million investment in the country’s burgeoning AI ecosystem.
Under the leadership of Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, the NAIR scheme has strategically chosen these startups to drive technological advancements across critical sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, finance, and education.
Dr. Tijani expressed optimism about the potential of these startups to propel Nigeria’s tech landscape onto the global stage. He emphasized that the NAIR scheme aims to create a vibrant and sustainable AI ecosystem by providing grants and facilitating knowledge sharing and collaboration among individuals and organizations in the AI industry.
Exceptional proposals stand out
After a rigorous evaluation process involving 26 distinguished Nigerian AI experts from around the world, the NAIR scheme identified exceptional proposals that address pressing challenges and promise to revolutionize industries. These innovative projects encompass diverse areas:
- Nurse Oge: Bringing AI-powered patient monitoring, diagnosis, and treatment closer to communities.
- Farmspeak Technology Limited: Leveraging AI-driven insights to combat poultry mortality and enhance climate resilience.
- Lendsqr: Democratizing access to finance through AI and alternative data sources, paving the way for faster, bias-free credit decisions.
- Edunetix: Shaping the future of learning with AI-powered personalized education and career guidance.
- IDB analytics: Utilizing AI and geofencing technology to tackle security challenges in conflict zones.
- Gwin Technologies Limited: Putting AI in the palm of your hand with a smart mobile diagnostic tool for animal health.
Significant investment for growth
These grants represent a significant investment in nurturing Nigeria’s vibrant and sustainable AI ecosystem. With this commitment, the nation’s tech sector is poised to reach new heights, create job opportunities, solve critical challenges, and improve the lives of millions.
The NAIR scheme, which opened for applications from October 13th to November 15th, garnered an overwhelming response from the country’s AI talent pool. The selection process identified the 45 startups as the best among many who expressed interest in the scheme, solidifying Nigeria’s commitment to fostering innovation and leveraging AI for societal advancement.
The chosen startups represent the cutting-edge AI innovation in Nigeria, offering solutions to some of the nation’s most pressing problems. By harnessing the potential of AI, these startups hold the key to revolutionizing various industries and communities, unlocking a future full of possibilities.
The NAIR scheme’s commitment to fostering AI innovation in Nigeria reflects the government’s dedication to advancing technology and the digital economy. This investment will contribute to job creation, technological advancements, and economic growth, making Nigeria a prominent player in the global tech arena.
Collaboration and knowledge sharing
In addition to financial support, the NAIR scheme aims to create a collaborative environment among AI researchers and organizations. This knowledge-sharing approach will enable the seamless exchange of ideas and expertise, further accelerating AI development in the country.
The NAIR scheme provides financial backing and promotes collaboration and knowledge sharing, setting the stage for a thriving AI ecosystem in Nigeria. As these startups continue to innovate and disrupt their respective fields, they hold the potential to transform industries, empower communities, and shape a brighter future for the nation.
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