Google's AI Academy Backs Infrastructure Startups: New Cohort Announced
Google is continuing its push to foster innovation in the AI space. I've been following their efforts, and it's great to see them double down on supporting startups using AI to tackle critical infrastructure challenges. They've just announced the second cohort for their AI Academy American Infrastructure Academy.
This isn't just some feel-good initiative; it's a serious program. The four-month academy is aimed at early-stage companies, from seed to Series A. What's really cool is that Google provides equity-free support. We're talking leadership coaching, sales training, and all sorts of resources these young companies need to succeed.
It's mostly virtual, but there's an in-person summit at Google. That opportunity to connect face-to-face, I think, is invaluable for building relationships and sparking collaborations.
Google seems to have a knack for picking promising AI startups. Just look at the alumni from last year's cohort. Cloverleaf AI, for instance, a government contractor, snagged a $2.8 million seed round. Then there's Zordi, an autonomous agtech company, which had already raised a cool $20 million from Khlosa Ventures. These aren't just names on a list; they're companies making waves.
I find it really interesting that Google isn't just throwing money at the problem; they're actively investing in education and opportunity. Sundar Pichai announced a $120 million Global AI Opportunity Fund last year, aimed at making AI education more accessible.
And this AI Academy is just one piece of the puzzle. Google has other academies, like the Founders Academy and Growth Academy, all designed to help entrepreneurs thrive. It seems like Google is really betting big on AI.
Source: TechCrunch