Google has announced the launch of its second Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First programme for the Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye (MENA-T). This 12-week, equity-free initiative aims to empower promising Seed to Series A startups using artificial intelligence. The programme offers vital infrastructure, tools and expert guidance to help them grow and succeed.
MENA-T’s Growing AI Potential
The MENA-T region is fast becoming a key hub for AI innovation. Industries across the region are witnessing rapid transformation. PwC estimates AI could add US$15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030. In addition, McKinsey forecasts up to US$150 billion in gains for GCC countries alone.
Regional AI investment continues to accelerate. Wamda reports that its share of total startup funding more than doubled from 2023 to 2024. Furthermore, PwC expects the region to capture US$320 billion — about 2 per cent of the global AI benefits — by 2030.
Google Cloud’s Commitment to AI Startups
“The incredible momentum of AI development in the Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye region presents a unique opportunity to foster a new wave of technological advancement,” stated Abdul Rahman Al Thehaiban, Managing Director, MENA-T, Google Cloud. “Google Cloud is committed to providing a robust and scalable platform for AI innovation. Our aim is to equip these pioneering companies with the cloud infrastructure and expertise necessary to optimise their AI workloads and accelerate their growth trajectory in this dynamic field.”
Anthony Nakache, Managing Director, Google MENA, added: “With the ‘Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First’ programme, we are dedicated to providing targeted support to innovative startups, helping them access Google’s best resources to solve complex challenges and scale their impactful AI-driven solutions globally.”
What the Programme Offers
The Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First MENA-T programme provides eligible startups with Google Cloud credits. These credits support the development and deployment of AI solutions. Startups also gain expert technical mentorship from Google Cloud engineers and solution architects. This guidance helps them optimise cloud infrastructure for AI workloads.
Moreover, participants will attend AI-focused workshops. These sessions cover Google Cloud’s AI/ML tools, data analytics and serverless computing. Additionally, business growth and leadership development workshops will support their market expansion.
The accelerator also offers valuable networking opportunities. Selected startups can connect with investors, potential partners and industry leaders through a curated network.
