Google and Novastar Ventures have launched a new Applied AI Lab to help African startups and researchers build artificial intelligence solutions for healthcare, agriculture and education.

Applications for the programme opened on 1 July, with the initiative backed by Google's AI Futures Fund and supported by Google DeepMind and Google Research.

AI support for African innovators

The inaugural cohort will select between five and ten startups or researchers, with successful applicants expected to be announced in September.

Participants will receive early access to Google's latest AI models, technical mentorship from Google engineers, Google Cloud credits and go-to-market support to help bring their products to market.

Google also said selected participants may qualify for equity investment and non-dilutive funding, making the programme one of the most comprehensive AI support initiatives currently available to African startups.

In addition to Novastar Ventures, participating founders will receive mentorship from Ventures Platform, 4DX Ventures and Norrsken22.

Building AI for real-world challenges

According to Novastar Ventures, the programme is focused on startups using AI to solve practical challenges rather than simply improving workplace productivity.

The initiative is targeting innovations in healthcare, agriculture and education, sectors where AI is increasingly being used to improve access to essential services across Africa.

Novastar has already backed companies applying AI in these areas, including healthcare provider Penda Health, education technology company NewGlobe and agritech startup Agrails, which uses AI to support climate risk insurance for smallholder farmers.

Google's AI investment in Africa grows

The Applied AI Lab forms part of Google's broader effort to expand AI development across Africa through its AI Futures Fund.

As investment in artificial intelligence continues to grow globally, major technology companies are increasing support for African innovators developing AI solutions tailored to the continent's unique challenges.

By providing access to advanced AI models, technical expertise and funding opportunities, the programme aims to help more African startups move from research and prototypes to commercially successful products.

Applications for the first cohort are now open, with the programme scheduled to begin later this year.