At an event held at the Dubai Future Foundation Auditorium, Google announced the launch of its Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program, which includes the first cohort of 15 outstanding AI startups from the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey.
A range of AI applications, including healthcare, agriculture, sustainability, finance, and accessibility, are represented by the 15 chosen startups. The program’s goal is to give startups using AI to tackle urgent problems access to Google’s state-of-the-art technology while also connecting them with business leaders and a thriving network of other entrepreneurs.
“As we witness the immense potential of AI to revolutionise industries and economies worldwide, the Middle East and North Africa stand at a pivotal juncture. With the UAE leading the charge, the region is poised to harness the power of AI to drive innovation, economic growth, and societal progress,” highlighted Anthony Nakache, Managing Director of Google MENA, on the transformative potential of AI in the Middle East and North Africa. He also added, “Through the Google for Startups AI First programme, we are committed to empowering exceptional founders and startups who are leveraging AI to address pressing challenges and create a brighter future for the region.”
On October 21, a two-day event marked the start of the 10-week program, during which the startups participated in panel discussions, workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities. “The goal is to help the cohort develop and scale to their full potential,” says Baris Yesugey, Head of Accelerator & Startup Ecosystem, MENA-T. “Our comprehensive support will focus on problem-solving, refining business strategies, and identifying new avenues for growth and development.”
To encourage innovation and entrepreneurship in the area, Google launched the Google for Startups Accelerator program. Google is contributing to the development of a more promising future for Syria, North Africa, and the Middle East by giving these startups the tools they require to expand.
