Google Australia names AI accelerator cohort
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The news: Google Australia has announced eight AI-focused Australian startups that will join its inaugural Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program.
The numbers: Eight finalists were selected for the equity-free, hybrid 10-week accelerator program, which is part of Google's $1.52 billion investment in Australian research, partnerships and infrastructure.
The context: The AI First program expands on Google's commitment to fostering local AI innovation in Australia, following recent initiatives such as the AI Sprint and Google Certificates.
The accelerator is designed to help AI-focused startups grow rapidly and responsibly, offering mentorship from Google AI experts, technical support, networking opportunities, and workshops.
The eight startups selected for the program are:
- Asseti — which streamlines asset management processes;
- BuildShip — a low-code platform for creating backend APIs;
- FetchPet — an app for pet health management;
- GigaBuddy — an AI-powered platform for online communities;
- LoveHeart — an intelligent teaching assistant;
- Marqo — a platform for vector embeddings;
- Sauce — which provides real-time AI customer insights; and
- Springboards — an AI-powered creative agency.
What they said: "Australia is a trailblazer in AI innovation and has a vibrant startup industry. Under the Digital Future Initiative, we're excited to be fostering that potential," said Scott Riddle, Google Australia and New Zealand.
"The AI Accelerator will give these AI-focused startups support, mentorship, and resources to grow rapidly and responsibly. We look forward to working with these incredible Australian businesses to help shape the future of AI innovation in Australia."
The sources: Google Australia media release, Google Australia blog
