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Calling the Next Generation of AI Innovators. Applications open for the AI Fund

Sep 10, 2024

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NCAIR and Google launch N100Million AI Fund to empower Nigerian AI startups. Selected startups will receive funding, access to Google's AI tools and infrastructure, mentorship, and global networking opportunities, fostering AI-driven innovation in Nigeria.

Screenshot 2024-09-10 at 18.24.02
Folarin Aiyegbusi
Head of Startup Ecosystem, Sub Saharan Africa
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Dr. Bunmi Ajala
National Coordinator, National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR)
Startup founders brainstorming at an event

Across the world, the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping economies, redefining industries, and offering new ways to tackle societal challenges. In Nigeria, we are at an exciting moment—where our collective talent, innovation, and forward-thinking could place us among the key players driving Africa’s AI revolution.

Looking toward the future, it’s clear that the integration of AI into our economic and societal frameworks is no longer optional—it’s vital. AI is already here, and Nigeria is ready to harness this technology to address its challenges while creating opportunities for growth, inclusion, and global competitiveness.

Earlier this year, the Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy hosted the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (NAIS) Workshop—an event that marked a significant step forward in our collective journey toward AI integration. This was followed by the release of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, a visionary blueprint for how AI can be harnessed to spur economic growth, improve governance, and enhance the well-being of every Nigerian.

Applications open for the N100Million AI Fund

Today, we are taking an additional step toward that vision. We are excited to unveil the AI Fund—an initiative aimed at empowering Nigeria’s brightest AI startups to turn their innovative ideas into reality. The N100Million fund, developed in collaboration between the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) and Google, represents a commitment to nurturing the next generation of AI-driven solutions in Nigeria. With this fund, we are not only investing in technology but in the people who will drive that technology forward.

The Nigeria AI Fund offers Nigerian startups access to the essential resources, mentorship, and networks they need to elevate their innovations. Startups selected for this program will benefit from:

  • Funding: Up to ₦10Million to accelerate their growth.
  • Access to AI Tools: Access to Google’s world-class AI tools and infrastructure to help scale solutions.
  • Mentorship: Opportunities to work closely with Google’s AI experts, gaining insights and guidance.
  • Global Networks: The chance to connect with a global network of innovators and partners.
  • Sectoral Impact: The ability to create AI-driven solutions across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, and governance, contributing to real-world impact.
Banner showing the call for applications

Apply now

We’re inviting Nigeria’s brightest minds and most ambitious startups to step forward. This is an opportunity to develop AI solutions that contribute to building a future where Nigerian innovators are at the forefront of AI innovation, shaping industries and improving lives.

Applications are open from September 10 to September 25, 2024. Apply now at https://ncair.nitda.gov.ng/aifund/. We’re excited to see what you will create and look forward to supporting you on this journey.

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