In a recent competition, two Kenyan AI startups, Neural Labs Africa and Me-Nasoma, emerged victorious at the first Meta AI Academy Kenya Pitchathon, securing a total of KSh 1.3 million in funding without giving up equity. Each winner received $5,000, equivalent to roughly KSh 645,000, along with advertising credits from Meta to advance their technological projects.
The equity-free funding lets founders retain full control, while the advertising credits help raise awareness of their AI services among target audiences.
Organized by Meta in collaboration with This Is Digital, the competition sought to back Kenyan innovators creating AI solutions for critical economic and social issues. Over 426 applications were submitted, with 10 finalists chosen to pitch their ideas to judges.
Neural Labs Africa was honored for NeuralSight, an AI-driven tele-radiology tool linking healthcare providers with remote specialists. The platform enhances diagnostic access by aiding in medical image analysis and reporting, even in areas with poor internet connectivity.
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Its design ensures functionality in low-bandwidth settings, enabling remote clinics to access specialist expertise.
Me-Nasoma created an accessibility-focused tool that transforms written content and web pages into audio. Available via mobile, web, and a Chrome browser extension, it allows users to listen to text-based material.
In addition to funding, both startups will showcase their innovations at Meta’s Regional AI Summit on November 24 in Istanbul, Turkey. This platform offers exposure to a wider audience and potential connections with industry leaders.
Sarah Muyonga, Meta’s Public Policy Manager for East and Horn of Africa, highlighted the company’s partnerships with government and local organizations in expanding AI skills, tools, and opportunities in Kenya. The program also provides mentorship to help startups turn their ideas into market-ready products.