Futurize and AstraZeneca Announce the 2nd Cohort for its African Healthcare Incubator: Empowering the Next Generation of HealthTech Innovators
Aug 13., 2024 - Following the remarkable success of last year's inaugural program, Futurize and AstraZeneca, through the A.Catalyst Network are excited to launch the second cohort of the FuturizeU HealthTech incubator program. The 2024 cohort runs from August 12 until November 12, continuing our mission to nurture early-stage, health care focused university startups with the support of the A.Catalyst Network’s Africa and Egypt Health Innovation Hubs.
Last year, Futurize made significant strides in addressing healthcare equity and early NCD diagnosis challenges across Africa. The program supported ten innovative startups, each of which has shown substantial progress in their respective fields. Highlights included six out of ten companies incorporating, raising over $100,000 in grants and revenue, winning numerous awards, and entering programs like the Oxford Africa Initiative. These successes underscore the importance and impact of providing targeted support to young healthcare entrepreneurs in the region.
Reflecting on the program, Rhea Singhla, CEO at Futurize, notes: “The success stories from our first cohort prove that targeted support and mentorship can transform innovative ideas into impactful healthcare solutions. This year, we are building on that foundation, aiming to further empower our exceptional young founders.”
Futurize remains committed to equipping the next generation of healthcare entrepreneurs with essential tools to navigate startup complexities. This year's program continues to focus on leveraging advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to accelerate meaningful healthcare advancements.
Laila Helmy, Head of Digital and IT for Egypt, states: “At AstraZeneca, we recognize the vital role that the next generation plays in shaping the future of healthcare innovation. Earlier this year, we extended our support by mentoring emerging talents through our digital mentorship initiative, underscoring our commitment to fostering an environment that nurtures growth. It is truly exciting to see Egyptian student startups accepted into this year’s Futurize incubation program. The Egypt Health Innovation Hub, alongside other hubs across Africa, is dedicated to empowering these promising individuals, who are on the path to making significant contributions to the healthcare industry.”
With over 150 applications, the program admitted 14 highly selected teams from partner universities across Sub-Saharan Africa, targeting university students, alumni, and groups from previous Fuel Africa cohorts with transformative healthcare startup concepts. Cross-country teams from 11 countries and 24 different universities tackle problems such as medical diagnostic tools and early detection of cervical cancer and ocular diseases.
Program Highlights:
Comprehensive Curriculum: An intensive curriculum covering critical startup principles such as product-market fit, financial strategies, and practical go-to-market approaches.
Mentorship and Networking: Guidance from seasoned advisors and industry experts, providing invaluable networking opportunities.
Demo Day: Participants will showcase their startups to a network of industry partners, investors, and stakeholders at the FuturizeU Demo Day in November, 2024.
Futurize and AstraZeneca A.Catalyst are eager to continue exploring further partnership opportunities to support healthcare entrepreneurs and strengthen healthcare systems in Africa and beyond.
For more information about FuturizeU and the 2024 cohort, please visit https://www.futurize.studio/futurizeu or contact Rhea Singhla at rhea@futurize.studio.
About Futurize Studio
Leading the charge in sparking innovation and technological progress in Africa, Futurize Studio motivates a new generation of problem-solvers and visionaries through platforms like Fuel Africa and the FuturizeU Incubator. As an ecosystem builder, Futurize actively fosters collaborative networks, uniting stakeholders across industries to amplify impact and drive systemic change. These programs are designed to tackle the continent's urgent challenges, steering us toward a future where healthcare and environmental sustainability are aligned. Website: www.futurize.studio
About AstraZeneca:
AstraZeneca (LSE/STO/Nasdaq: AZN) is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialisation of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases, and Biopharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, and Respiratory & Immunology. Based in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide. Please visit astrazeneca.com and follow the Company on LinkedIn.
Partner with us
Join us as a partner at Futurize to spearhead innovation and entrepreneurship programs to generate groundbreaking ideas and businesses for a sustainable future. Get in touch with us by filling out the form below.
