The selected finalists are in the running for investment and incubation from think as the second cohort. The first cohort comprised of Rwandan company TorQue and Nigerian company Cribpark, who both received investment, access to key networks, assessment of growth, and office space. According to Tongai Maramba, General Manager of Tigo Rwanda, “We are excited about the promising top 10 finalists. Investing in the final selected companies from among this group is a hallmark of Tigo’s commitment to innovation and to growing the IT startup environment across Africa.” The 10 finalists represent six African nations: Rwanda, Burundi, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Uganda, as well as the US and were selected by a committee of top tech investors, including executives from Millicom, Tigo Rwanda, the African Entrepreneur Collective, and leading regional tech entrepreneurs, who are in the process of selecting up to 5 companies. The chosen businesses will join think in May, receiving $15,000 in equity investment, strategic consulting services, and a tailored growth-training curriculum, as well as access to Tigo resources and global tech mentors. The think top 10 include early stage companies that provide a variety of IT Solutions, addressing diverse consumer needs throughout Africa, with an ability to scale rapidly: Malaika Travel & Tours, Rwanda Product: A travel app designed to crowd-share rides and excess luggage allowances. Mergims, Rwanda Product: A mobile application that allows Rwandan migrants to pay airtime, tuition fees, and utility bills efficiently. SeedBox, Uganda Product: An interactive online mentorship platform, connecting young African entrepreneurs to those around the globe SoftProviders, Burundi Product: A multi-function, adaptable mobile payment platform, leveraging patented M-PAY technologies. THE Exchange Visionary Labs, United States Product: Contact lenses that display an augmented reality. Think 3D Google glass. Two4one, Kenya Product: A mobile platform incentivizing people to eat out, go out, and hang out more often.
