Google has inaugurated its ground-breaking AI First Accelerator Program tailored explicitly for African startups. Operating over a 10-week period, this equity-free accelerator is open to companies from Seed to Series A funding stages. The program is not restricted to any specific industrial sector, but there is a catch: your startup must be leveraging technologies in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML).
It is a 10-week equity-free accelerator program for Seed to Series A startups based in Africa or building Africa-centered solutions with technology. The Accelerator program is sector-agnostic but will only accept applications from startups leveraging Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning from any vertical. The AI First program is designed for startups that are building products or services that use artificial intelligence in a transformative way. We are looking for companies with a strong team and a clear vision for how AI can be used to solve real-world challenges.
Key Benefits
Equity-free
- 10 weeks of equity-free support.
Google Product Credits
- Eligible startups receive product credits.
Founder Network
- Connect and get support from fellow founders as a part of Google for Startups alumni network.
Custom Mentorship
- Receive tailored product and leadership support from Google mentors and industry experts.
Google Product Support And Advice
- Learn product tips and tricks directly from the Googlers who built them.
Exposure
- Exposure to potential partners, VCs and investors interested in AI First tech startups.
Entry Criteria
- Google for Startups Accelerator Africa accepts applications from startups in Algeria, Botswana, Cameroon, Côte D’ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.
- Startups demonstrating traction, ideally between Seed and Series A stage.
- Building a scalable product or service with a significant total addressable market and defensible growth model.
- Deeply technical, preferably leveraging technologies like Machine Learning and AI.
- Commitment from CTO and/or technical roles to participate and engage in required program sessions.
Timeline: Important Dates to Remember
- August 22, 2023: Applications Open
- September 6, 2023: Application Deadline
- September 2023: Program Kickoff.
How to Apply: Next Steps
For those keen on seizing this unparalleled opportunity, the official webpage for the Google AI First Accelerator Program serves as the portal for applications. The deadline for application submission is September 6th, 2023. You can access the application and further information via this link.