JADA, a Lagos-based talent hub specialising in data and AI staff augmentation, has raised $1 million in funding to drive its vision of training Africa’s next generation of AI professionals.
The startup, founded by Massimiliano Spalazzi, former CEO of Jumia Nigeria, and Olumide Soyombo, co-founder of Bluechip Technologies, aims to transform Africa’s talent industry and provide businesses worldwide with high-quality data and AI expertise.
The funding round comes as global demand for AI talent is outpacing supply.
According to Google’s 2024 Data & AI Trend Report, more than half of digital leaders are struggling with a shortage of skilled professionals in AI and data analytics.
JADA plans to train over 100 professionals annually through its proprietary four-month programme. The training, targeted at experienced professionals with at least two years in data and analytics, machine learning, or generative AI, combines technical and soft skill development. Participants receive stipends during the programme, though specific figures remain undisclosed.
“Our academy is built to develop world-class talent capable of leading businesses through data and AI transformation,” said JADA CEO Piero Trivellato, a veteran in management consulting and AI-focused leadership roles.
The company’s ultra-selective recruitment process employs an AI-powered algorithm to screen candidates across multiple dimensions, including technical assessments, case studies, and culture-fit interviews. This rigorous approach ensures that only the most qualified individuals make it into JADA’s training cohorts.
JADA’s business model is designed to address critical pain points for companies looking to integrate AI into their operations. In offering access to a highly trained talent pool in Africa, JADA enables clients to bypass traditional recruitment challenges while benefitting from the region’s cost-effective yet high-quality workforce.
“Our approach focuses on professionals who can deliver immediate value to clients,” said Olumide Soyombo. “We want to create a sustainable model where cash flow from successful projects is reinvested into scaling our talent pipeline.”
JADA’s initial focus is on businesses in Europe and the Middle East, leveraging Africa’s favourable time zones and English proficiency to meet client demands. The company plans to expand its reach geographically, aligning with client requirements for additional language capabilities and regional presence.
JADA has built itself as a global competitor in the data and AI outsourcing market, stressing advantages in cost, language, geography, and talent quality. “Africa is rapidly emerging as the next frontier for tech talent,” said Spalazzi. “Our mission is to harness this potential and deliver value to businesses globally.”
While the startup has begun operations in Nigeria, it plans to scale across Africa to maximise its impact. “Our expansion will follow our clients’ needs,” Trivellato added, noting JADA’s focus on long-term client partnerships and evolving talent solutions.
The funding will enable JADA to bridge the AI talent gap and establish Africa as a global hub for high-quality data and AI expertise.
