Here, some startup trends that grew in 2020 and will continue to thrive in 2021.

1. REMOTE WORKING

Here are some great examples to take a look at. For example, Abodoo – a platform that lets those seeking remote or flexible work create a free skills profile that matches them with opportunities. Figma – founded in 2015, but already well-known in the design space, a cloud-based tool for collaborative interface design. Bluescape – a SaaS company that focuses on creating a visual collaborative platform.

2. ROBOTIC DELIVERY

The use of robotics for delivery has been slow due to the lack of willingness to adopt the technology. What seemed complicated and more expensive compared to employing humans for delivery has now become one of the hottest focuses to emerge from 2020 and into 2021.

3. VIRTUAL AND TELEHEALTH CARE

Institutions, especially in healthcare, are attempting to lower the exposure to Covid-19 for patients and staff. From this fact alone, there is no doubt that many private and public practices have started implementing many telehealth offerings. Studies show that 80% of primary care services can be delivered virtually.

4. STARTUPS USING 5G — SMART CITIES, AUTONOMOUS SHIPS

Even with all the conspiracy theories around 5G and Covid-19, there is no doubt that the demand for higher speed internet and a shift to well-connected homes has pushed the advancement of 5G. There are over 380 operators currently investing in 5G, and over 35 countries have already launched commercial 5G services.

5. ONLINE EDUCATION

There is a huge opportunity in the market with schools, colleges, and even coaching centres conducting classes via video conferencing. Many of these institutions have actually been recommended to complete a portion of their curriculum online even after everything returns to normal.

6. NEW WAVE OF BIOTECH STARTUPS

The biotech industry is already valued at $295 billion. This number may grow in 2021 as DNA analysis becomes more widestream and advanced.

7. DIGITAL INNOVATION SPREADS TO AFRICA

Once deemed too risky, the untapped potential on the continent is too great for many startups to ignore. In fact, Partech reports that $2 billion of VC money found its way to Africa last year.

8. A NO-CODE STARTUP BOOM

Companies like Bubble and Zapier now make it easier than ever for anyone to build digital products. These platforms allow you to create "no code" or "low-code" custom apps and websites. Low-code requires much less, or even zero coding knowledge. Even seasoned web developers often use no-code solutions as a super fast way to build apps, or to quickly prototype business ideas.

9. THE SHARING ECONOMY REACHES NEW SECTORS

Going into the next decade, the sharing economy concept will be fully played out as startups attempt to extend its power into other sectors.

10. AGTECH IS IN DEMAND

Agricultural technology is needed as societies look to go beyond sustainable farming. Regenerative agriculture is next on the agenda. This means to improve the soil and reverse human impact on the environment through a self-nourishing process.

11. FOODTECH

Year 2020 has seen the rise of foodtech startups such as cell-based clean meat company Shiok Meats and plant-based meat startup Next Gen in developing sustainable meats.