Google has opened applications for the 8th cohort of its Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program.
Google said in a statement that this cohort will have a strong focus on startups leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to address critical challenges and unlock new opportunities across the continent.
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.
“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 up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits, personalised guidance from Google AI experts, seasoned entrepreneurs, and industry leaders and in-depth training on AI/ML development, product strategy, and scaling.
Other benefits are connections to potential investors, partners, and customers as well as 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 utilizing AI/ML in a transformative way.
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