Google Launches AI Academy to Boost Innovation in Pakistan
On August 5th, Google for Startups announced the launch of the AI Academy, a new initiative aimed at fostering the growth of artificial intelligence (AI) startups in Pakistan and the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The program is designed to support over 20 startups developing AI technologies, providing them with mentorship, resources, and significant financial support. Applications for the AI Academy are open until August 16, 2024.
The AI Academy will offer tailored mentorship from Google’s AI experts, who will provide personalized guidance and support. Startups will also benefit from up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits to aid in AI development and experimentation. Additionally, the program emphasizes community building, facilitating opportunities for startups to connect and collaborate with peers across the APAC region.
A key component of the AI Academy is its focus on accelerating startups to market. The program will help startups create a “proof of concept” and develop a product roadmap, enabling them to quickly validate and enhance their AI solutions. This approach aims to demonstrate the tangible value of AI innovations and integrate them efficiently into existing products.
Farhan S. Qureshi, Google Pakistan’s country director, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating that the AI Academy reflects Google’s commitment to nurturing AI growth across the Asia-Pacific. He expressed optimism that Pakistani startups will leverage this opportunity to enhance their AI solutions and contribute to the strengthening of the AI ecosystem in the region.