Dubai, UAE — October 25, 2024
Google has officially launched its “Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First” programme at a prominent event held at the Dubai Future Foundation Auditorium. The event celebrated the programme’s inaugural cohort, featuring 15 exceptional startups from the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey, all leveraging AI to address challenges in fields such as healthcare, agriculture, sustainability, finance, and accessibility.
The 10-week accelerator programme kicked off with a two-day series of panel discussions, workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities tailored to equip participants with insights and resources essential for growth. Through this programme, Google aims to foster innovation across the region by providing startups access to cutting-edge technology, expert mentorship, and a vibrant network of fellow entrepreneurs.
Highlighting the regional significance of AI, Anthony Nakache, Managing Director of Google MENA, remarked, “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.” Nakache 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.”
The programme’s structured support system will concentrate on solving core business challenges, refining strategies, and exploring new growth avenues for the startups. Baris Yesugey, Head of Accelerator & Startup Ecosystem, MENA-T, emphasized, “The goal is to help the cohort develop and scale to their full potential. Our comprehensive support will focus on problem-solving, refining business strategies, and identifying new avenues for growth and development.”
This initiative underscores Google’s commitment to advancing the innovation ecosystem in MENA and Turkey, empowering AI-driven solutions and fostering a brighter, tech-enabled future for the region.
Visit Google Arabia’s blog to find out more about the programme.
