Google’s newest startup program, announced Wednesday, aims to bring AI technology into the public sector. The recently launched “Google for Startups AI Academy: American Infrastructure» will offer participants hands-on training from AI experts and other support for companies solving problems in fields such as agriculture, energy, education, public safety, healthcare, telecommunications, transportation, urban development and more .
Over the course of twelve weeks, startups participating in the equity-free program will be guided through an AI curriculum developed by Google Humans + Research AI (PAIR) team and will participate in advanced sales and marketing workshops. They’ll also be able to access industry connections and, of course, leverage Google’s AI tools as they build.
Startups that graduate from the program will then be part of it graduates community which already includes other infrastructure-focused companies such as JustAirwhich uses artificial intelligence to monitor air pollution. Cambio, which focuses on the exemption of commercial real estate. and Sensagratewhich works to reduce traffic accidents.
Google says that it will select startups that use artificial intelligence to boost productivity and solve problems in a range of industries, including not only the above, but also disaster prevention, environment and sustainability, smart manufacturing and logistics, public safety, water management, development workforce and opportunity.
The deadline for applications it’s June 17th.
While much of the focus is on AI companies building models, tools and interfaces for working with AI, a focus on real-world applications of the technology could impact communities at the local, state and national levels, Google believes. The company encourages start-ups to apply even if they are not directly focused on these industries, but are working in any way to create more efficient and fair public services.
