Tech giant Google is calling on African innovators! Applications are now open for the eighth edition of its Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program. This year, the program places a special emphasis on startups harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to tackle Africa’s unique challenges and fuel growth across various sectors.
Recognizing startups as the engine of economic progress and problem-solving, Google acknowledges the crucial role they play in shaping Africa’s digital future. From financial technology (fintech) and agricultural technology (agritech) to healthcare and education, these young companies are revolutionizing various industries.
The Google for Startups Accelerator Africa offers a virtual, three-month program that provides participating startups with valuable resources. This includes mentorship from experienced professionals, access to cutting-edge technical tools, and connections with a global network of experts and potential investors. Since its launch in 2018, the program has empowered 106 startups from 17 African countries. These companies have collectively secured over $263 million in funding and created more than 2,800 direct jobs, highlighting the program’s significant impact on the continent’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“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.”
The Class 8 program 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.
