News

Google Announces “AI First Accelerator Program” For African Startups

Published

3 years ago

August 23, 2023

This program recognises the transformative role that AI is playing across the world, innovating industries and reimagining the realms of possibilities. It also highlights the significant contributions of African startups in addressing some of the region’s most pressing challenges through the use of AI.

The ‘AI First’ program is aimed at supporting startups keen on delving into AI’s possibilities. It draws learnings from past initiatives such as the Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa, The Google for Startups Black Founders Fund, and The Google for Startups Accelerator: Women Founders, the primary aspiration remains consistent: to support and highlight African-driven solutions.

Applications for the 10-week equity-free accelerator are now open, inviting startups up to series A stage based in Africa or building Africa-centric solutions with AI and machine learning. Participants will benefit from access to Google’s AI expertise, technical resources including up to $350k Google Cloud Credits, mentorship from seasoned AI professionals, and invaluable networking opportunities.

Speaking about the initiative, Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa, remarked, “Africa’s tech landscape is vibrant and ever-evolving. It’s inspiring to see African startups not only harnessing AI to address our unique challenges but also setting benchmarks for the world. ‘AI First’ is more than a program; it’s a testament to our belief in the vision of these startups, ensuring they have the support and guidance they need to realise their full potential.

Since inception in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa program has supported 106 startups from 17 African countries. Collectively, these startups have raised over $263 million in funding and created over 2,800 direct job opportunities in the region.

Related Topics:African Startups Featured Google News

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CP Ojajuni Visits Olota, Reaffirms Commitment to Peace and Security in Ogun

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1 day ago

July 17, 2026

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Blue Lagos Facilitates INEC Continuous Voter Registration Across Riverine Communities

Published

2 days ago

July 17, 2026

akonitv

Blue Lagos is pleased to inform residents of riverine and coastal communities across Lagos State that officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will be conducting the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) Exercise in selected communities from Thursday, 16 July to Sunday, 19 July 2026.

This intervention is part of INEC’s ongoing Nationwide Continuous Voter Registration exercise, which has been taking place across various communities in Lagos State.

Through the engagement and advocacy efforts of Blue Lagos, the exercise is now being extended to additional riverine and coastal communities to ensure that more residents have convenient access to voter registration services.

The exercise will cover communities in Badagry, Epe, Eti-Osa, Ojo, Amuwo-Odofin, Apapa, Ibeju-Lekki, Ikorodu, Kosofe, and Lagos Mainland, with dedicated registration centres established within or close to the affected communities.

Eligible residents are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity.

Residents of the Riverine areas should visit the designated registration centre closest to their community on the scheduled date indicated by INEC.

Kindly refer to the attached schedule for the list of dedicated registration locations, dates, and communities covered under this phase of the exercise.

For further information, please contact your community leaders or follow Blue Lagos communication channels.

Blue Lagos – No Community is Left Behind

Prince Adewunmi Aroyewun
08147723259
For: Blue Lagos