Latest news with #GoogleforStartupsAccelerator:
The Citizen
2 days ago
- Business
- The Citizen
SA innovator joins Google for Startups Accelerator Africa Class 9
The selection from nearly 1 500 applications highlights the immense talent across the continent. Google has announced the selection of the 15 groundbreaking African tech startups, including one from South Africa, for the Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa Class 9. These innovative startups include South Africa's Rapid Human AI, an end-to-end AI design-thinking platform that turns ideas into code in days, cutting development time by 80%. Other startups hail from Ghana, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda and Senegal, all leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to address significant challenges across diverse sectors such as fintech, agritech and healthtech. African startups In an era where African startups are at the forefront of solving critical challenges but often face hurdles and massive challenges to scale, particularly in securing funding, the programme plays a crucial role. The selection from nearly 1 500 applications highlights the immense talent across the continent. Folarin Aiyegbusi, head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa at Google, said African startups are at the forefront of solving critical challenges across the continent, and their work with AI is 'truly transformative'. 'This programme reflects our belief that AI can be transformative when shaped by those who understand the context deeply. We are incredibly excited to support these founders who are building for impact and helping to shape an inclusive AI ecosystem across Africa.' ALSO READ: Google unveils AI model and website to forecast tropical storms Support Over the next three months, the selected startups will participate in a hybrid accelerator programme from 23 June to 22 August 2025. Participants will receive dedicated technical mentorship from experienced Google engineers and industry experts, up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits, and strategic support in AI implementation, product leadership, and business growth. They will also gain access to a global network of investors, partners, and collaborators, amplifying their reach and impact. Google for startups Since its inception in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa has supported 153 startups that have collectively raised more than $300 million in funding and created more than 3 500 jobs, underscoring the programme's tangible impact. By bringing together Google's extensive resources, including AI technologies and a global network of experts, the programme aims to equip these startups not only to thrive but also to lead in addressing both local and global challenges in this AI era. NOW READ: Interpol warns of Africa cybercrime surge, SA also affected
TECHx
22-05-2025
- Business
- TECHx
Google Launches AI First Program for MENA-T Startups
Home » Startups » Google Launches AI First Program for MENA-T Startups Google has announced the launch of its second 'Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program. The initiative targets startups in the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkiye (MENA-T). This 12-week, equity-free accelerator supports Seed to Series A startups. It aims to help those using artificial intelligence to scale and succeed. The program offers selected startups access to essential infrastructure, tools, and expertise. Google Cloud will provide AI-specific support to help participants grow. The MENA-T region is quickly becoming a major hub for AI innovation. PwC estimates AI could contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030. McKinsey projects up to $150 billion of that could come from the GCC. Regional AI investment is also rising. According to Wamda, its share of total startup funding more than doubled from 2023 to 2024. PwC further reported that MENA-T could gain $320 billion, or 2% of global AI benefits, by 2030. Abdul Rahman Al Thehaiban, Managing Director of MENA-T, Google Cloud, revealed that the region's AI momentum presents a major opportunity. He said Google Cloud is committed to offering a scalable platform for innovation. He added that the goal is to help startups optimize AI workloads and accelerate growth. Anthony Nakache, Managing Director of Google MENA, stated the program offers targeted support. He said it helps startups access Google's top resources to solve complex challenges. Startups accepted into the program will receive: Google Cloud credits to develop and deploy AI solutions Expert mentorship from Google Cloud engineers and architects In addition, the program will include AI-focused workshops. Topics will cover machine learning, data analytics, serverless computing, and go-to-market strategies. Leadership and business growth sessions will also be provided. Participants will also get networking access to investors, partners, and industry leaders. Google has encouraged eligible startups to apply for the AI First program by June 16, 2025. Applications are open on the Google for Startups website.
Time of India
13-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Google announces applications for startup accelerators in India
New Delhi: Google on Tuesday announced that applications are now open for the Google for Startups Accelerator : AI First India 2025 program. According to the official statement by Google, this initiative is aimed at supporting India's growing AI ecosystem by helping startups in the Seed to Series A stages. Startups focused on Agentic AI and Multimodal AI are especially encouraged to apply. The deadline for applications is June 30. It said "As a part of our continued efforts to support this vibrant ecosystem and contribute to the broader goals of the IndiaAI Mission, with the support of MeitY Startup Hub, we are excited to open the applications for the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program in India". India's tech scene is expanding quickly, driven by skilled professionals and a strong economy. Artificial Intelligence is being adopted rapidly, with the government making it a priority through efforts like the IndiaAI Mission. Google also noted that according to projections, India's Generative AI market is expected to exceed USD 17 billion by 2030. AI is also set to play a key role in helping the country achieve its USD 1 trillion digital economy target by 2028. Through this accelerator program, Google stated that the selected startups will get access to top-tier mentorship from Google teams including DeepMind, Cloud, Android, Play, Ads, and others. Startups will also receive one-on-one support based on their goals and progress, guided by dedicated startup success managers. Participants will have access to free Cloud TPUs, Cloud credits (if eligible), and the latest AI tools and models from Google. They will also get hands-on support in integrating advanced AI models such as Gemini, Gemma, Imagen, and Veo to overcome technical challenges. Last year, the tech giant noted that the accelerator program had a major impact. Participating startups raised over USD 61 million in funding and gained access to the Google Cloud Marketplace, helping them reach new markets and improve their products. It said "Last year's Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First India program significantly impacted participating startups, resulting in over USD 61M in cumulative funding, Google Cloud Mrketplace integration for expanded market access, and notable product improvements". Google hopes to support and empower the next wave of AI-driven startups through this year's program.
