Google today announced the opening of the eighth batch of students for the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program. This cohort will focus on startups that leverage 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. Digital transformation is rapidly accelerating in Africa, and startups are playing a key role in shaping the continent's future. From fintech and agritech to healthcare and education.
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.
Also read: Meet the 15 African startups selected for the Google for Startups Accelerator 2022 program
The Class 8 program will run from June to September 2024 and includes:
- Stock-free support: up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits.
- Mentorship: Personal guidance from Google AI experts, experienced entrepreneurs, and industry leaders.
- Technical workshops: In-depth training on AI/ML development, product strategy, and scaling.
- Global network: connections with potential investors, partners and customers.
- Community: A collaborative network of founders facing similar challenges and opportunities.
Similar: Google launches first dedicated Startups Accelerator for female founders in Africa
Applications are open from April 29 to May 20, 2024 and can be submitted online here. Eligible startups must be based in Africa or building Africa-centric solutions and leverage his AI/ML in innovative ways.
Google supports promising startups in Africa
Since its launch in 2018, the program has supported 106 startups in 17 African countries, collectively raising more than $263 million and creating more than 2,800 direct jobs.
Startups also get early access to new Google products and tools, and access to Google's network of industry experts. Through this program, selected startups will join the Google for Startups Accelerator global community and network of alumni and mentors for greater collaboration and support.
Other benefits include marketing spotlight opportunities, training in design, marketing and leadership, and support for corporate and product strategy.
“We are excited to support Africa’s next generation of AI pioneers through the Google for Startups Accelerator, providing them with the resources and guidance they need to build successful and impactful businesses.” said Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Google Africa Startup Ecosystem. .
He added: “Africa's technology ecosystem is a hotbed of innovation, and AI has the potential to be a transformative force across a variety of sectors.”
Empowering women-led startups
Recall that in January last year, Google opened applications for the first Google for Startups Accelerator: Women Founders Africa Program, an offshoot of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program.
The program focuses on empowering and supporting women founders working on African issues and providing them with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed and scale their startups.
This program had a wide range of benefits. In addition to networking with industry experts, selected participants will have access to Google's products, resources, tools, and technology, as well as connections with investors to accelerate their startup's development.
Female founders also received mentorship from industry experts who advised and supported selected participants during the program. These played a key role in helping participating startups realize their full potential and make a difference in their communities.
Folarin Aiyegbusi explained that this will remove the institutional barriers placed on women, preventing them from fully participating in economic empowerment programmes.
The 15 selected startups were announced as part of the 2023 International Women's Day celebrations.
