The 11 startups were picked from a vast pool of innovative talent. Photo: Google
Google has announced the start of the first cohort of its ‘Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First’ program with 11 startups selected across Africa.
The 11 startups, picked from a vast pool of innovative talent, use cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence to address Africa’s challenges and broader global issues.
A McKinsey report highlights AI’s transformative power in Africa, which suggests that AI could add $1.3 trillion to Africa’s GDP by 2030.
Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem Africa said Google has been working on AI for over a decade.
“We’ve shown how useful AI is in our products and for developers externally. AI is not only a powerful enabler, it’s also a major platform shift. That’s why we’re focused on making it easy and scalable for others to innovate with AI.
“Our chosen startups for the ‘AI First’ program embody this vision, leveraging AI in pioneering ways to address both local and global challenges. We’re here excited to support and amplify their impact,” Aiyegbusi said.
ALSO READ: Google at 25: ‘We believe in making the impossible possible’ – Mokoena
The selected startups will go through a 10-week accelerator journey and benefit from Google’s AI expertise and a $350,000 allocation in Google Cloud Credits.
Not just this, they will also benefit from mentorship sessions, technical guidance, and networking opportunities to enhance their reach and impact.
These Startups use cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence to address Africa‘s challenges and broader global issues. They were selected from a vast pool of applications that were received.
Since 2017, Google has consistently supported African startups across diverse programs. These startups have raised $263 million and created over 2,800 job opportunities.
Earlier this month, Google marked its 25th birthday with some playful interactive features. To celebrate the milestone, those using Google’s search bar experienced an animated Google Doodle, that took users through a timeline of the Google logo before changing into a 25 to mark its birthday.
ALSO READ: SA tech company unveils AI platform to redefine technological boundaries
Download our app and read this and other great stories on the move. Available for Android and iOS.
