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).
The 12-week, equity-free initiative is aimed at supporting promising Seed to Series A startups that are developing AI solutions, offering access to infrastructure, tools, and expert guidance to help scale their technologies.
The MENA-T region is increasingly being recognised as a growing centre for AI innovation, with broad applications across a range of industries.
According to PwC, AI could contribute up to US$15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030.
McKinsey estimates that Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries alone could see gains of up to US$150 billion.
Investment in AI across the region is also on the rise, with Wamda reporting that the share of AI-related startup funding more than doubled between 2023 and 2024.
PwC further forecasts that the region could benefit from US$320 billion, approximately 2 percent of the global economic impact of AI, by 2030.
Commenting on the programme, Abdul Rahman Al Thehaiban, Managing Director for MENA-T at Google Cloud, said:
“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. 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 at 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.”
Startups selected for the programme will receive Google Cloud credits to support the development and deployment of their AI technologies.
The programme includes technical mentorship from Google Cloud engineers and solution architects, focusing on optimising cloud infrastructure for AI workloads.
It also offers workshops on Google Cloud’s AI and machine learning tools, data analytics, and serverless computing, alongside sessions on go-to-market strategy, product development, and leadership.
Participants will also have access to a network of investors, industry experts, and potential partners.
Eligible startups operating in the MENA-T region are encouraged to apply by 16 June 2025.
Featured image credit: Google
