Investing in Innovation Africa (i3), an initiative funded by the Gates Foundation, has announced its second cohort of 29 healthcare supply chain startups across 21 African countries. These startups are poised to receive a $50,000 grant, introductions to potential customers, and investment readiness support. The aim is to improve healthcare access, strengthen local health systems, and promote innovation in the healthcare supply chain sector across Africa.

The startups in this cohort are working on a range of solutions, including online pharmacies, telemedicine firms, inventory management services, supply chain data analytics, product protection, and visibility solutions. They are tackling key challenges such as fragmented healthcare supply, high medicine prices, and underrepresentation of women in funding.

Kieran Daly, the director of global health agencies and funds at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, emphasized the importance of leveraging solutions from both the public and private sectors to enhance health outcomes.

This initiative not only addresses critical healthcare issues but also promotes diversity by focusing on women-led companies and underserved regions like francophone Africa. The goal is to empower these startups to scale their operations and make a meaningful impact on healthcare access and affordability in Africa.

The i3 2023 cohort includes a diverse range of startups with innovative solutions, and their contributions are expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of the healthcare supply chain in Africa.

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