Google has announced the launch of AI Academy, a new program designed to help artificial intelligence businesses in Pakistan and Asia Pacific.
The aim of the AI Academy initiative is to stimulate new transnational innovations and partnerships, facilitate exchange of ideas, expertise or resources with a view to speed up development of artificial intelligence solutions. Google’s public relations agency pointed out that this initiative would make the Asia Pacific region a global hub for artificial intelligence development.
This program will connect more than 20 startups in the country that are developing AI-based technologies. It will not only promote the AI community in the Asia Pacific region but also kick start new innovations in other countries. This collaborative environment can facilitate the exchange of new ideas, skills, and resources, and speed up the development of the latest AI solutions. It will help to make Asia Pacific region a global hub for the advancement of artificial intelligence.
Selected startups would benefit in several ways through this program, including:
Google’s Global Artificial Intelligence Experts will be available to guide and support AI Academy members. In addition, to encourage the development and experimentation of artificial intelligence, each startup will be eligible for up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits. Networking and collaboration opportunities with other AI startups throughout the region are also included in this program.
Farhan S Qureshi, Google Pakistan’s country director, stated: “Our latest AI Academy program is a testament to Google’s commitment to foster the growth of AI across the Asia-Pacific. With Pakistan being an important market, we hope that local startups will use this opportunity to supercharge their AI solutions and further strengthen the AI ecosystem in APAC.”
The mission of Google for Startups is to support diverse and inclusive startup communities around the world. Google connects entrepreneurs to the people, products and best practices to help them grow business.
Google Startup has introduced several startup programs in Pakistan since its inception. However, this is the first time they are introducing a program specifically focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Applications for the AI Academy program are open until August 16, 2024.