Google today announced the opening of applications for the 8th cohort of its Google for Startups Accelerator Africa programme. This cohort will focus on startups leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to address critical challenges and unlock new opportunities across the continent.
Startups are the lifeblood of innovation, driving economic growth, creating jobs, and solving some of society’s most pressing challenges. 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.
The Google for Startups Accelerator Africa is a three-month, equity-free virtual programme that provides African startups with mentorship, technical resources, and access to a global network of experts and investors.
Read also: Meet the 15 African startups selected for Google for Startups Accelerator 2022 programme
The Class 8 programme 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 here. Eligible startups must be based in Africa or building Africa-centric solutions and should be utilising AI/ML in a transformative way.
Google is Supporting promising startups in Africa through its Accelerator
Since its inception in 2018, the programme has supported 106 startups from 17 African countries and has collectively raised over $263 million and created more than 2,800 direct jobs.
Startups also enjoy early access to new Google products and tools and access to Google’s network of industry experts. Through the programme, selected startups will be included in the Google for Startups Accelerator Global Community and network of alumni and mentors, to enhance collaboration and support.
Other benefits include marketing spotlight opportunities, training on design, marketing, and leadership, support on company and product strategy, etc.
“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”, he added.
Empowering women-led startups
Recall that Google opened applications for its inaugural Google for Startups Accelerator: Women Founders Africa Programme in January last year as an offshoot of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa programme.
The programme was focused on empowering and supporting women founders who are addressing the problems in Africa and equipping them with the resources and opportunities they need to excel and scale up their startups.
The programme offered a wide range of advantages. Selected participants will also have access to Google’s products, resources, tools, and technology, as well as connections with investors to promote the development of their startups, in addition to networking with industry professionals.
Read more: Google launches 1st dedicated Startups Accelerator for women founders in Africa
The Women Founders also had industry expert mentorship who advised and assisted the selected participants during the programme. These played a key role in helping the participating startups to realize their full potential and make a difference in their communities.
Folarin Aiyegbusi explained that the programme will close down the institutional barriers placed on women, which leads to them being secluded from participating fully in economic empowerment programmes.
The 15 selected startups were announced as part of the 2023 International Women’s Day celebration.
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