Google's newest startup program, announced Wednesday, aims to bring AI technology to the public sector. The newly launched “Google for Startups AI Academy: American Infrastructure” will provide participants with hands-on training from AI experts and support for companies solving problems in areas including agriculture, energy, education, public safety, healthcare, communications, transportation and urban development.
Over the course of 12 weeks, startups that join this equity-free program will be guided through an AI curriculum developed by Google's People + AI Research (PAIR) team, participate in advanced sales and go-to-market workshops, gain access to industry connections, and of course, leverage Google's AI tools as they build.
Startups that graduate from the program will join an alumni community that already includes infrastructure-focused companies such as JustAir, which uses AI to monitor air pollution; Cambio, which is focused on decarbonizing commercial real estate; and Sensagrate, which is working to reduce road fatalities.
In addition to the above, Google will select startups that use AI to improve productivity and solve problems across a range of industries, including disaster prevention, environment and sustainability, smart manufacturing and logistics, public safety, water management, workforce development, and economic opportunity.
The application deadline is June 17th.
While much of the attention has been on AI companies building models, tools and interfaces for working with AI, Google believes a focus on real-world applications of this technology can impact communities at the local, state and national levels. The company encourages startups that aren't directly focused on these industries but are working in some way to create more efficient and equitable public services to apply.