Google for Startups Accelerator Africa Opens Applications for 8th Cohort, Emphasizing AI and ML Startups

Google for Startups Accelerator Africa Opens Applications for 8th Cohort, Focusing on AI and ML Startups

Google has announced the opening of applications for the 8th cohort of its Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program. This three-month, equity-free virtual program aims to provide 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, raising over $263 million and creating more than 2,800 direct jobs. The upcoming cohort will focus on startups leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to address critical challenges and unlock new opportunities across the continent.

“In Africa, digital transformation is accelerating rapidly, and startups play a vital role in shaping the continent’s future, from fintech and agritech to healthcare and education,” said Google.

Selected startups will participate in the accelerator class from June to September 2024 and receive a $350,000 allocation in Google Cloud Credits without giving up equity. Additional benefits include personalized mentorship from Google AI experts, training sessions on AI/ML development, access to potential investors, partners, and customers, as well as membership in a supportive community of fellow founders.

Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startups Ecosystem, Africa at Google, expressed excitement about supporting the next generation of African AI pioneers through the program. He highlighted the transformative potential of AI across various sectors in Africa’s tech ecosystem.

In 2023, 11 startups, including Fastagger, a blockchain and AI company from Kenya, were selected to join the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program. Fastagger and the other startups will benefit from mentorship sessions and specialized technical training.

Applications for the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program are open from April 29 to May 20, 2024, and startups from 17 African countries are eligible to apply. Interested startups can submit their applications on the program’s website.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a program that has already made a significant impact on the African startup ecosystem. Join the ranks of successful startups that have benefited from Google’s support and expertise in AI and ML development. Apply now and take your startup to the next level!