India, known for having the world's third-largest startup ecosystem, is experiencing an unprecedented increase in its AI startup landscape. Innovators from several industries are using artificial intelligence to tackle various problems. Recognizing the potential of startups to tackle systemic issues using AI, Google has increased its assistance through the Google for Startups Accelerator program. This initiative has recently broadened its scope to include startups that use large language models for generative AI solutions.  

Google has announced a three-month equity-free accelerator program for AI-first startups in India ranging from Seed to Series A stage. Selected startups benefit from expert coaching and support in AI/ML (including Generative AI), UX, Android, Web, Product, Leadership, and Growth.  

About the program  

This accelerator aims to bring together the best of Google's technology, products, people, and networks to help AI-first startups solve real issues across several industries and develop in the fast-changing AI ecosystem.  

Founders identify the top technical and commercial difficulties for their startups, and they are then partnered with appropriate experts from Google and the industry to help them solve those problems and build their businesses.  

In addition to mentorship and technical project help, this accelerator offers deep dives and workshops on product design, customer acquisition, and founder leadership growth.  

Benefits  

• Equity-free support- Equity-free support: For the duration of the program.  
• Mentoring- Dedicated mentoring from Google teams.  
• Training- Exclusive invitations to technical boot camps hosted by Google were offered.  
• Access to experts- Access to Google's network of industry experts.  
• Google product credits- Eligible startups receive product credits.  
• Early access- Access to new Google products and tools as relevant.  
• Strategic support- Support on company and product strategy.  
• Technical project partnership- Work hand in hand with experts from Google on your biggest tech challenges.  

  Entry Criteria  

• Startups demonstrating traction, ideally between Seed and Series A stages.  
• Startups based/headquartered in India.  
• Building a scalable product or service with a significant total addressable market and defensible growth model.  
• Deeply technical, leveraging technologies like Machine Learning and AI.  
• Commitment from the founder(s) and/or relevant people from startups to participate and engage in required program sessions.  

To apply, interested startups should go to the program's website. Google also invites entrepreneurs to attend weekly virtual open forums on Fridays from 4-5 PM (IST) to learn more and have their questions answered. Registration for these sessions is available through the website.  

Source: Google

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