African startups are ready to make their mark. Leading this charge is Resilience17 (formerly Berrywood), the venture studio founded by Olugbenga “GB” Agboola, CEO of Flutterwave. Resilience17 has just launched Go Time AI, an AI-focused accelerator designed to fuel the growth of African AI startups with funding, mentorship, and resources.
From Berrywood to Resilience17: A Strategic Pivot
Launched in 2021 as Berrywood, the venture studio already boasts a strong portfolio with names like Klasha, Pivo, AltSchool, and Bamboo. The rebranding to Resilience17 signifies more than a name change—it’s a renewed commitment to driving innovation across Africa’s tech landscape.
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Now, with Go Time AI, Resilience17 is focusing on one of the most transformative technologies of our time: artificial intelligence. The accelerator promises up to $200,000 in funding per startup in exchange for 8% equity, along with hands-on mentorship from industry leaders.
How Go Time AI Works: Funding, Mentorship, and Growth
Go Time AI’s structure is designed to help startups at every stage:
- Initial Funding: Startups receive an upfront $25,000 to kickstart operations.
- Growth Capital: Eligible startups can access up to an additional $175,000 in follow-on funding.
- Resource Support: Participants gain access to cloud computing credits, API services, and technical resources to build, test, and scale their AI products.
But Go Time AI isn’t just about the money. It’s about creating an ecosystem where African founders can thrive. This includes:
- Office Hours: Deep-dive sessions focusing on technical development, product strategy, and growth tactics.
- Demo Nights: Bi-weekly events where founders pitch their progress, receive feedback, and engage directly with investors and mentors.
- Expert Mentorship: Guidance from top tech leaders like Wiza Jalakasi (EBanx), Olusola Amusan (Vesti), Samee Zahid (Chipper Cash), and Yewande Akomolafe-Kalu (Flutterwave).
Meet the First Cohort: African AI Innovators
The first Go Time AI cohort, launched in 2024, showcased the diversity and ingenuity of African entrepreneurs. The five selected startups pitched at the January 2025 Demo Day:
- Catlog: An AI-bot that helps businesses sell products, manage customer inquiries, process payments, and deliver goods via Instagram and WhatsApp.
- Sahel AI: A legal tech tool that uses AI for contract review and drafting, streamlining workflows for law firms and corporate legal teams.
- Tyms: AI-powered accounting software designed to simplify financial management for small businesses.
- AI Teacha: A tool that assists educators in creating lesson plans, presentations, and learning materials using AI.
- FriendNPal: A 24/7 mental health AI companion offering live therapy sessions and mental wellness support.
Each startup received $25,000 upfront, with opportunities for additional funding in subsequent rounds. Notably, Resilience17 does not operate a dedicated fund for the accelerator. Instead, it draws from its $35 million fund pool, allowing flexibility in cohort sizes and funding allocations.
Why Go Time AI Matters
According to Hasan Luongo, General Partner at Resilience17:
“Despite challenges acutely highlighted in 2024, Nigeria is poised to continue leading as a global technology hub and can lead in AI. We launched Go Time AI to prove this thesis. After the last four months working closely with the first cohort of AI companies, that conviction has only become stronger.”
Go Time AI is more than an accelerator—it’s a bold statement that Africa isn’t just participating in the global AI race; it’s here to lead.
While African tech ecosystems face hurdles like limited access to capital, infrastructure gaps, and talent shortages, programs like Go Time AI are bridging these gaps. They provide not just funding, but also the mentorship, technical resources, and networking opportunities needed to scale globally competitive AI solutions.
The Bigger Picture: A Growing African Tech Ecosystem
Go Time AI’s launch aligns with a broader trend of accelerators targeting Africa’s booming tech sector:
- Accelerate Africa, founded by Iyin Aboyeji (Future Africa) and Mia von Koschitzky-Kimani, is often referred to as the “YC of Africa.”
- JADA, a talent hub launched by Massimiliano Spalazzi (former Jumia Nigeria CEO) and Olumide Soyombo, focuses on connecting global companies with top AI talent from Africa.
These initiatives reflect a growing confidence in Africa’s tech ecosystem, fueled by a young, dynamic population and a wave of innovative founders eager to solve real-world problems with cutting-edge technology.
What’s Next? Applications for the Second Cohort Open in May 2025
After a successful first cohort, Go Time AI is gearing up for its next round. Applications for the second cohort will open in May 2025, offering another opportunity for African AI startups to secure funding, mentorship, and a spot in one of the continent’s most exciting accelerators.
If you’re an African founder working on AI solutions—or if you know someone who is—now is the time to get ready.
Final Thoughts
Go Time AI represents a pivotal moment for Africa’s AI ecosystem. It’s not just about funding startups; it’s about nurturing bold ideas, empowering local talent, and proving that Africa can lead in AI innovation on a global scale.
So, whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or tech enthusiast, keep your eyes on Go Time AI. The future of African tech is unfolding, and it’s nothing short of inspiring.
Applications open in May 2025—will your startup be next?
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