Google’s 8th Startups Accelerator Africa will prioritize AI and ML.
A primary emphasis of the eighth cohort of Google for Startups Accelerator Africa will be on companies using AI and ML to solve important problems and open up new business opportunities throughout the continent.
Google claimed that its three-month application period for a virtual program that offers equity-free support to African businesses in exchange for technical resources, mentorship, and access to a worldwide network of investors and experts is intended to help the continent’s future generation of AI pioneers.
A primary emphasis of the eighth cohort of Google for Startups Accelerator Africa will be on companies using AI and ML to solve important problems and open up new business opportunities throughout the continent.
Google claimed that its three-month application period for a virtual program that offers equity-free support to African businesses in exchange for technical resources, mentorship, and access to a worldwide network of investors and experts is intended to help the continent’s future generation of AI pioneers.
“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,” said Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startups Ecosystem, Africa at Google. “Africa’s tech ecosystem is a hotbed of innovation, and AI has the potential to be a transformative force across various sectors.”
According to Google, startups are essential to innovation because they spur economic expansion, generate employment opportunities, and address some of the most important social issues. The digital transformation of Africa is happening at a very fast pace, and startups are very important in determining the future of the continent. from healthcare and education to agritech and fintech.
Additionally, since its launch in 2018, the Startups Accelerator Africa program has helped 106 businesses from 17 different African nations, raising over $263 million and directly supporting the creation of 2,800 employment.
The 8th cohort will run from June to September 2024 and will include:
- Equity-free support: Up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits.
- Mentorship: Personalised 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.
Applications are open from April 29 to May 20, 2024, and can be submitted online at g.co/AcceleratorAfrica. Eligible startups must be based in Africa or building Africa-centric solutions and should be utilising AI/ML in a transformative way.
