Google has officially launched its second Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program aimed at the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkiye (MENA-T) region. This 12-week initiative focuses on empowering promising Seed to Series A startups that are leveraging artificial intelligence. The program offers essential infrastructure, tools, and expertise necessary for these startups to scale and succeed in a competitive market.

Abdul Rahman Al Thehaiban, managing director for MENA-T at Google Cloud, emphasized the unique opportunity presented by the rapid development of AI in the region. He stated, “The incredible momentum of AI development in the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkiye region presents a unique opportunity to foster a new wave of technological advancement.” He noted that the aim is to equip pioneering companies with the cloud infrastructure and expertise required to optimize their AI workloads and enhance their growth trajectories.

The Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program provides selected startups with Google Cloud credits, which are designed to accelerate the development and deployment of their AI solutions. Participants will receive expert technical mentorship from Google Cloud engineers and solution architects, focusing on optimizing cloud infrastructure for AI workloads.

In addition to mentorship, the program includes workshops centered on Google Cloud’s AI/ML capabilities, data analytics, and serverless computing. There will also be sessions on Go-To-Market strategies that cover vital areas such as product design, business growth, and leadership development. Furthermore, the accelerator will facilitate extensive networking opportunities with a curated group of investors, potential partners, and industry leaders.

Anthony Nakache, managing director of Google MENA, highlighted the program’s commitment to supporting innovative startups. He remarked, “With the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program, 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.”

The MENA-T region is rapidly establishing itself as a crucial hub for AI innovation, significantly impacting various industries. According to PwC, AI could contribute an astounding $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, while McKinsey projects an economic impact of up to $150 billion specifically for GCC countries.

Investment in AI within the region is also on the rise, with the share of total startup funding more than doubling from 2023 to 2024, as reported by Wamda. PwC anticipates that by 2030, the region could generate $320 billion, equating to 2 percent of the total global benefits of AI.