Joshua Barimon Firima

Led the development and launch of KrosAI, a pioneering multilingual AI infrastructure platform designed to support African-accented English and under-resourced languages, driving inclusive AI solutions for diverse markets.

• Secured selection by MARL Accelerator ($50K investment), Google Cloud ($350K credits), and NVIDIA Inception, validating KrosAI's market potential and technological innovation.
• Directed comprehensive product architecture, recruited and onboarded core team members, and formulated a robust go-to-market strategy for the platform.
• Successfully onboarded over 60 B2B customers and engaged more than 10,000 end users across Africa and the diaspora, demonstrating strong market adoption and user growth.

Designed, developed, and scaled an AI-powered sales automation operating system for SMEs, directly enabling users to generate over $240,000 in Gross Merchandise Value (GMV).

• Achieved selection for the Microsoft-backed FAST Accelerator and AFRISE Challenge, placing among the top 30 out of 300 African startups, recognizing innovation and growth potential.
• Managed the end-to-end product roadmap, conducted extensive customer development, and executed press outreach campaigns, resulting in features on Techpoint and ThisDay.
• Drove significant user engagement and value creation, culminating in users generating over $240,000 in GMV through the AI-powered sales automation OS.

Launched and successfully exited DFYHero, a no-code website builder that garnered over 4,000 users and powered more than 6,000 websites, demonstrating strong market traction and product viability.

• Developed and launched a no-code website builder, attracting over 4,000 unique users and powering more than 6,000 websites, showcasing rapid user adoption and platform utility.
• Secured media coverage in Vanguard Nigeria and successfully negotiated the acquisition of the company by a private buyer in 2021, validating market value and strong exit strategy.
• Oversaw all aspects of platform development, user acquisition strategies, and comprehensive support channels, ensuring seamless operations and user satisfaction.

As a way to give back, I volunteered and helped build the entire digital presence of StreetPriests Inc., a nonprofit working with children in underserved communities. My involvement included website design & development, as well as online donation setup, resulting in over $70,000 in donations that contributed to helping them impact the lives of 17,777 kids.

Mentored aspiring female technologists and entrepreneurs within the African tech ecosystem, contributing to skill development and career growth.

• Provided strategic guidance and practical support to mentees, fostering their professional development within the tech industry.
• Contributed to building a stronger, more inclusive tech community across Africa through active mentorship.

Recognized for innovative startup potential and selected for the prestigious accelerator program, validating business model and technology.

Invited as a plenary speaker to share insights on international trade and investment, demonstrating thought leadership.

Invited to review and evaluate startups for a prominent accelerator program, demonstrating industry expertise and strategic insight.

Participated in a leading entrepreneurial program for high-potential founders, enhancing venture building and leadership skills.

Selected for Microsoft's accelerator program, validating technology and business model within the tech ecosystem.

Received significant support and credits for AI infrastructure development, accelerating platform capabilities and innovation.

Presented on the intersection of food and technology at a key industry event, showcasing expertise in emerging tech applications.

Recognized as a top 30 startup out of 300 African startups for innovation and impact, highlighting competitive advantage.

Nominated for outstanding achievements as a young entrepreneur in the Fintech sector, recognizing leadership and impact.