Kenyan Startups Picked For Google’s AI Accelerator Program

Google’s philanthropic arm, Google.org, has selected Kenya’s Jacaranda Health and EIDU as the only two beneficiaries from Africa among the 21 organisations to join the first Google.org Accelerator: Generative AI Cohort.

Jacaranda Health leverages Natural Language Processing (NLP) trained in African languages to expand digital health services to underserved mothers. EIDU employs generative AI for personalised tutoring services in low and middle-income countries through tailored digital learning exercises.

The six-month program is aimed at supporting nonprofits developing high-impact applications of generative AI. The selected organisations will focus on areas like climate, economic opportunities, health, education, and crisis response. In addition to technical training, workshops, mentors, and pro bono support from dedicated AI coaches; Google.org is also providing more than $20 million in funding across the projects.

Dorothy Ooko, Head of Communications and Public Affairs, Google, Africa, said: “Generative AI can empower social impact teams to be more productive, creative, and effective in serving their communities. We look forward to helping the chosen organisations harness the potential of this technology to tackle some of the continent’s most pressing challenges.”

A recent Google.org survey found that four out of five nonprofits believe generative AI can benefit their work, but nearly half lack the necessary tools, awareness, training, and funding to adopt it.

This diverse cohort also includes organisations from the United States, United Kingdom, France, and Germany.