Google has launched the Google AI accelerator for African startups: This AI First initiative aims to support African startups that want to use artificial intelligence to solve local challenges.

Google is inviting startups based in Africa or building Africa-centric solutions with AI and machine learning to apply for the ten-week equity-free accelerator. The accelerator is open to startups up to series A stage.

The ‘AI First’ programme draws on past initiatives such as the Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa, The Google for Startups Black Founders Fund, and The Google for Startups Accelerator: Women Founders.

Participants will benefit from access to Google’s AI expertise, technical resources including up to US$350k Google Cloud Credits, mentorship from seasoned AI professionals, and networking opportunities.

Folarin Aiyegbusi, head of startup ecosystem for Africa at Google, “Africa’s tech landscape is vibrant and ever evolving. It’s inspiring to see African startups not only harnessing AI to address our unique challenges but also setting benchmarks for the world. ‘AI First’ is more than a programme; it’s a testament to our belief in the vision of these startups, ensuring they have the support and guidance they need to realise their full potential.”

Google says that since inception in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa programme has supported 106 startups from 17 African countries. Collectively, these startups have raised over US$263 million in funding and created over 2 800 direct job opportunities in the region, the company added.

Entry Criteria

  • Startups demonstrating traction, ideally between Seed and Series A stage.
  • Building a scalable product or service with a significant total addressable market and defensible growth model.
  • Deeply technical, preferably leveraging technologies like Machine Learning and AI.
  • Commitment from CTO and/or technical roles to participate and engage in required program sessions.

Startups are invited to by 6 September 2023 here >> https://startup.google.com/programs/accelerator/africa/ 

Google will be joining the 6th edition of AI Expo Africa as a premium sponsor.  AI Expo Africa is the largest Enterprise AI / IA & smart tech trade community in Africa with 50K+ practitioners.  The trade expo & conference will run 2nd-3rd November 2023 in Johannesburg South Africa at the prestigious Sandton Convention Centre uniting 100s of decision makers, investors, buyers, suppliers, innovators, SMBs and global brands focused on real world business applications you can deploy TODAY.  Learn more >> www.aiexpoafrica.com

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