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AI First

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Korea - Hybrid
10 weeks
Pre-Series A to Series A

A 10-week equity-free accelerator program for Pre Series A to Series A Korean startups with apps published in the Google Play Store. The accelerator aims to connect the best of Google's products and people to support startups success in the rapidly evolving AI industry.

The Korean version of this website is located here.

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Korea - Hybrid
10 weeks
Pre-Series A to Series A

Applications are now closed

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About the program

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About the program

Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First is a ten-week hybrid accelerator program for high-potential Pre-Series A to Series A Korean technology startups using AI/ML to build their core products with apps published on Google Play Store.

The accelerator brings the best of Google’s programs, products, people, and technology to startups that aim to solve the challenges we face today. Selected startups will also benefit from Google AI technical expertise.

Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First accepts applications from startups headquartered in Korea, and some sessions will be conducted in English.

Key benefits

  • Equity-free support

    Equity-free support: For duration of program.

  • Mentoring

    Dedicated mentoring from Google teams.

  • Training

    Exclusive invitations to technical bootcamps hosted by Google where offered.

  • Access to experts

    Access to Google's network of industry experts.

  • Google product credits

    Eligible startups receive product credits.

  • Early access

    Access to new Google products and tools as relevant.

  • Strategic support

    Support on company and product strategy.

  • Technical project partnership

    Work hand in hand with experts from Google on your biggest tech challenges.

  • Get featured on the Google Play

    Get apps featured on the local Google Play Store.

Entry Criteria

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Entry Criteria

  • Startups demonstrating traction, ideally between Pre-Series A and Series A stage
  • Building a scalable product or service with a significant total addressable market and defensible growth model
  • Deeply technical, leveraging machine learning and AI with a dedicated AI lead within the team
  • Commitment from CEO, CTO and/or technical roles to participate and engage in required program sessions
  • We are committed to building accelerator classes that are diverse and inclusive, and encourage applications from qualified startups with founders of all backgrounds

Key dates

  • December 6, 2023

    Applications Open

    Add to calendar

  • February 12, 2024

    Applications close

    Add to calendar

  • April, 2024

    Program Kick-off

  • June, 2024

    Graduation

  • June, 2024

    Demo Day

Meet our mentors

Jeonghyun Yoon, CEO of BlueSignum is looking into laptop and smiling. Jeonghyun Yoon, CEO of BlueSignum is looking into laptop and smiling.

I was able to get support across all pieces of the businesses from building a scalable IT infrastructure to marketing, app development and design. It was an eye-opening experience.

Jeonghyun Yoon, CEO of BlueSignum

Frequently asked questions

Who should apply to the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First?

The accelerator targets Pre-Series A to Series A technology startups headquartered in Korea. We are looking for startups using core AI/ML with their apps published in the Google Play Store.

Startups should be past the "idea stage," with customer validation and market traction with their product/service.

The startups should have a dedicated AI lead within the team and their founding team should also demonstrate that they have the technical skills, business skills, and mindset to grow and scale a company in this region.

What is the format of the program?

It is a hybrid program.

When will the program run?

The program will run for 10 weeks, between April and June 2024.

Do you take equity or fee to be a part of this program?

The Accelerator is an equity-free program.

What are the criteria to receive product credits, and what does "eligible for product credits" mean?

Startups must meet specific criteria to be eligible for Google product credit offerings. To learn more about the Google Cloud credit eligibility requirements, please visit the Google Cloud startup page.

Which startups are eligible for getting Apps featured in the Google Play Store?

Startups need to meet baseline requirements.

Is there a similar program for startups in other regions?

Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First is also available for startups based in Europe and Israel. Please review this page for more information.

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