JADA, a data and analytics talent hub focused on staff augmentation, is working to reshape the AI talent landscape in Africa. Founded in 2024 by Massimiliano Spalazzi, former Jumia Nigeria CEO, and Olumide Soyombo, co-founder of Bluechip Technologies and Voltron Capital, JADA is on a mission to unlock Africa’s full potential in producing top-tier AI professionals. The startup has successfully raised $1 million from its founders and other investors, fueling its ambitious goals.
With AI talent in high demand globally, JADA aims to bridge the gap by training data professionals skilled in data and analytics, machine learning, AI, and generative AI. While Africa’s youthful population presents a promising workforce, the continent has often been limited to lower-level AI tasks such as data annotation. JADA intends to change this narrative, enabling African talent to take on more complex AI roles and compete in global markets.
JADA’s value proposition to its clients is twofold: access to a wider talent pool from regions they may not traditionally recruit from, and the ability to circumvent the complexities of local labor laws. The startup’s selective training programs are designed to develop world-class talent, with cohorts of experienced data professionals undergoing intensive, 4-month training periods. During this time, they receive stipends to support their learning journey.
At a time when 54% of digital leaders report a skills shortage in data and AI, JADA’s approach is timely. The company aims to train over 100 professionals annually, with each cohort undergoing an AI-backed screening process to ensure only the most qualified candidates are selected. Successful applicants will go through technical assessments, live case studies, and a culture-fit interview before being chosen for training.
The startup’s revenue model is centered on commissioned projects from clients, particularly businesses in Europe and the Middle East. By offering a cost advantage, geographical and language flexibility, and access to high-quality talent, JADA is positioning itself as a competitive force in the global AI and data outsourcing market.
JADA’s leadership team, led by CEO Piero Trivellato and VP of Operations Azeez Busari, is focused on scaling operations and expanding geographically to meet client needs. With its strong foundation and growing reputation, JADA is poised to play a pivotal role in addressing the global AI talent shortage and creating new opportunities for African professionals in the tech industry.
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