Parham Aarabi, a University of Toronto researcher, has developed an AI tool, named PRE, that could change how e-commerce sites cater to users with color vision deficiencies. AI-Powered Solutions for Improved Web Navigation “Around 8% to 10% of the population has a type of color-blindness,” said Aarabi according to Texh Xplore. “I wanted to see how this might impact web navigation.” Aarabi’s AI model simulates the browsing behaviors of virtual users, tracking interactions like page pauses, cart additions, and responses to discounts. The tool’s insights reveal that while colorful images typically attract users, those with color blindness respond differently, favoring monochrome imagery. By
TLcom Capital, a venture capital firm that partners with African entrepreneurs, has successfully closed its second fund, TIDE Africa Fund II, reaching $154 million. TLcom Capital From fintech to healthcare, TLcom has remained focused on seed to Series A investments, supporting transformative businesses like Andela and FairMoney through multiple funding rounds. With a majority-female leadership team, the firm not only champions gender balance but also backs initiatives like FirstCheck Africa to support women-led startups. TLcom’s approach involves partnering with entrepreneurs from the outset, aiming to build ventures that can deliver substantial returns. TIDE Africa Fund
Diagon, a new startup founded by former Tesla supply chain expert Will Drewery, aims to revolutionize equipment procurement for small businesses using technology and industry insights. Drewery learned a lot about buying high-tech equipment while working for Tesla, a company famous for its innovative electric cars. After years of handling big purchases for Tesla factories, Drewery decided to use his skills to help smaller companies through his new venture, Diagon. Co-founded with Shri Muthu, a former engineering VP at Snackpass, Diagon aims to share Drewery’s insider knowledge to help businesses
Tangent, a technology platform founded by former LinkedIn employee Gary Izunwa and Joe Adams, has secured $1.1 million in funding and officially launched out of beta. Tangent, an employee referral platform aims to make referrals accessible to everyone by increasing tech career opportunities for those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. A Vision For Inclusive Tech Tangent’s approach centers on starting with tech sales roles, engaging companies like Revolut, Stripe, and Amazon to support the transition of talent from diverse backgrounds into the tech ecosystem. This strategy aligns with the broader vision of Tangent—to democratize access to tech careers and create
The Folklore, a platform known for connecting global consumers with African brands and diasporic fashion, has secured a substantial $3.4 million seed funding. This round was spearheaded by Benchstrength Ventures, with contributions from Techstars, Black Tech Nation Ventures, and Slauson and Co. Connecting brands with Major Retailers In 2022, Folklore underwent a transformation. Originally a shopping platform showcasing primarly African brands, it now aims to enhance how emerging brands integrate into the retail landscape. “[Brands] would come to me for advice on how to expand their footprint, how to get a loan or how
Zuri, a Pan-African beauty startup, has achieved its first institutional tech investment from Launch Africa Ventures. Zuri’s Journey So Far Founded in 2016 by Gisela Van Houcke, Zuri has evolved from Van Houcke selling products from her car to a tech-driven powerhouse. The startup distributes beauty products such as hair extensions and cosmetics while aiming to empower Black women entrepreneurs and customers. Zuri offers a wide range of culturally relevant beauty products distributed through a hybrid model of physical salons, e-commerce, and social channels. The company has also developed a software platform
Nearly 60% of Black small- and mid-sized business (SMB) owners on TikTok say that the app is critical to their business’ existence, a new Oxford Economics report has found. TikTok’s Value For Small businesses Oxford Economics, in collaboration with TikTok, sought to understand the app’s economic value for local communities across the US. It surveyed 1,050 SMBs and 7,500 users in 2023 to gauge interactions and benefits derived from the app. Small and medium businesses generated $14.7 billion in revenues and supported 224,000 jobs on TikTok supported 224,000 jobs, the
Serena Williams, a legendary tennis champion, is making her mark in the tech investment world with her venture capital fund, Serena Ventures. Serena Ventures Following her retirement in September 2022, Williams has focused on the investment sector. With over 14 years of investment experience, she established Serena Ventures in 2014, a venture capital fund to empower women and underrepresented founders. This strategic move was born from Williams’ observation of the glaring lack of venture capital flowing toward specific demographics. As highlighted on its website, her venture proudly supports a diverse array of
Nourish + Bloom, the first Black-owned autonomous grocery store in the US, is reshaping how communities access fresh food after Shark Tank investors declined them. Founded by Jilea and Jamie Hemmings in 2022, Nourish + Bloom aims to reduce the nation’s food deserts, making eating healthy and convenient. Nourish + Bloom Nourish + Bloom is reportedly the first 100% AI-powered supermarket to be open for business 24/7. The store currently offers a range of essentials, from produce to toiletries, and a deli for prepared foods. However, unlike traditional stores, Nourish + Bloom operates
HERide, a rideshare platform focused on women’s safety, has become the first Black-owned company to secure a contract with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Co-founded in 2019 by Jillian Anderson and DeVynne Starks, HERide conducts thorough background checks on drivers and integrates in-ride security features to ensure passenger safety. Focused on women’s safety Anderson’s experience as a rideshare driver highlighted many women’s discomfort using traditional services like Uber and Lyft, especially at night. “There were a lot of women that were hesitant with riding with men at night using Uber and Lyft,” Anderson told AFROTECH. “I
