Google’s new startup program focuses on bringing AI to public infrastructure

Google’s latest startup program, announced Wednesday, aims to bring AI technology to the public sector. The recently launched “Google for Startups AI Academy: US Infrastructure” provides participants with hands-on training from AI experts and other support for companies solving problems in areas 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’s People + AI research (PAIR) team and will participate in advanced sales and go-to-market workshops. They also have access to industry connections and can of course leverage Google’s AI tools as they build.

The startups that graduate from the program will then be part of the program alumni community that already includes other infrastructure-focused companies such as Just Airthat uses AI to monitor air pollution; Cambio, which focuses on decarbonizing commercial real estate; And Sensagratethat is committed to reducing the number of road deaths.

Googling say that it will select startups that use AI to increase productivity and solve problems in a range of industries, including not only those mentioned above, but also disaster prevention, environment and sustainability, smart manufacturing and logistics, public safety, water management, development of the workforce and economic opportunity.

The term for applications is June 17.

While much attention is paid to the AI ​​companies building the 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, he said. Google. The company encourages startups to apply even if they are not directly targeting these sectors but are working in any way to create more efficient and equitable public services.