Google launches application process for African AI Start-ups Accelerator

Google Africa has announced the opening of applications for the eighth installment of its Google for Start-ups Accelerator Africa program. This year, the program is placing a special emphasis on start-ups that are utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to solve important issues and create new possibilities on the continent.

The Google for Start-ups Accelerator Africa is a three-month virtual program that does not take equity and offers African start-ups mentorship, technical support, and connections to a worldwide network of specialists and investors.

Since its launch in 2018, the program has aided 106 start-ups from 17 different African countries. These start-ups have gone on to secure over $263 million in funding and have generated in excess of 2,800 direct jobs, as reported by Google.

Folarin Aiyegbusi, the head of Start-ups Ecosystem in Africa at Google, expressed enthusiasm about empowering the upcoming wave of African innovators in AI through the Google for Start-ups Accelerator. The program aims to equip them with the necessary resources and guidance to establish thriving, influential enterprises.

The technology landscape in Africa is brimming with creativity, and artificial intelligence (AI) stands to be a game-changing influence in numerous industries.

Google observes that the pace of digital transformation in Africa is quickening, with start-ups being pivotal in forging the future of the continent.

Start-ups are the engine of innovation, propelling economic expansion, generating employment, and tackling some of the most urgent issues faced by society, according to Google.

The programme will run from June to September, 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.

Eligible start-ups must be based in Africa or building Africa-centric solutions and should be utilising AI/ML in a transformative way.

Applications will close on 20 May and must be submitted via the accelerator website.