Google for Startups Accelerator Africa 2024 Programme Opens – Google has officially opened applications for its Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program’s eighth cohort.
The 10-week equity-free accelerator program is for Seed to Series A startups based in Africa or developing Africa-centered solutions. Google for Startups Accelerator Africa accepts applications from startups in Algeria, Botswana, Cameroon, Côte D’ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.
Google has said this cohort will focus on startups leveraging AI and machine learning (ML) to address critical challenges and unlock new opportunities across the continent. Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa focuses on supporting growth-stage startups solving problems using advanced technology, such as AI/ML or data across key verticals.
The startups are paired with relevant Google and industry experts to solve their startup’s top challenges, and are provided with insights and best practices to improve their product and business.
The Google for Startups Accelerator Africa is a three-month, equity-free virtual program that provides African startups with mentorship, technical resources and access to a global network of experts and investors.
Since its inception in 2018, the program has supported 106 startups from 17 African countries and have collectively raised over $263 million and created more than 2,800 direct jobs.
The Accelerator Program will run from June to September 2024 and will include:
- Equity-free support: up to US$350,000 in Google Cloud credits.
- Mentorship: personalized guidance from Google AI experts, seasoned entrepreneurs and industry leaders.
- Technical workshops: in-depth training on AI/ML development, product strategy and scaling.
- Global network: connections to potential investors, partners and customers.
- Community: a supportive network of fellow founders facing similar challenges and opportunities.
Folarin Aiyegbusi, head of Startups Ecosystem, Africa at Google stated, “We’re excited to support the next generation of African AI pioneers through the Google for Startups Accelerator, providing them with the resources and mentorship they need to build successful, impactful businesses. Africa’s tech ecosystem is a hotbed of innovation, and AI has the potential to be a transformative force across various sectors. Eligible startups must be based in Africa or building Africa-centric solutions and should be using AI/ML in a “transformative” way.”
Applications can be submitted >> HERE
Dr Nick Bradshaw, Founder and Director of The South African Artificial Intelligence Association (SAAIA) an industry body focused on promoting the advancement of responsible AI in South Africa stated, “This is more great news for the AI Ecosystem in Africa. The speed of innovation in AI is advancing at a rapid pace and its great to see Google getting behind African AI startups via this programme. It is key to building a strong AI community across the region. We look forward to collaborating and promoting this initiative to our members.”
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