Google AI Academy Cohort Announced - American Infrastructure Focus

Google Announces Second Cohort for AI Academy: American Infrastructure

Google revealed on Thursday the selection of the second group of companies to participate in its AI Academy: American Infrastructure program. This initiative is focused on providing support to businesses leveraging artificial intelligence to tackle critical challenges in areas like cybersecurity, education, and transportation.

Program Details and Eligibility

The program, spanning four months, is geared towards companies in the seed to Series A funding stages. Participants receive equity-free support, encompassing leadership development and sales training resources. The program is conducted primarily online, with founders also attending an in-person summit hosted by Google.

Applications were accepted from late April through mid-May. Successful applicants were chosen based on stringent criteria, including demonstrating at least six months of financial runway and exhibiting clear evidence of market traction.

Google’s Success in Identifying AI Startups

Google has demonstrated a strong ability to identify promising AI startups. The inaugural cohort of American Infrastructure, completed last year, featured companies like Cloverleaf AI, a government contractor that subsequently secured a $2.8 million seed funding round. Another participant, Zordi, an autonomous agtech firm, had already raised $20 million from Khosla Ventures.

Furthermore, Google actively collaborates with leading companies utilizing its cloud infrastructure for AI applications.

Companies Selected for the Latest Cohort

The following companies have been chosen for participation in this latest program iteration:

• Attuned Intelligence — Develops AI-driven voice agents for call center operations.
• Block Harbor — Specializes in cybersecurity solutions for vehicle systems.
• CircNova — Employs AI to analyze RNA for therapeutic development.
• CloudRig — Provides AI technology to streamline scheduling, production, and work planning for contractors.
• Making Space — Facilitates connections between employers and individuals with disabilities seeking employment.
• MedHaul — Connects healthcare providers with non-emergency medical transportation services for patient mobility.
• Mpathic — Automates clinical workflows and provides AI-powered oversight for clinical trials.
• Nimblemind.ai — Focuses on organizing and managing health data.
• Omnia Fishing — Delivers personalized fishing recommendations, including location and equipment suggestions.
• Otrafy — Automates supply management processes.
• Partsimony — Assists companies in building and managing resilient supply chains.
• Satlyt — Offers a computing platform for processing satellite data.
• StudyFetch — Provides customized learning experiences for students, educators, and institutions.
• Tansy AI — Enables users to manage their health information, including appointments and records.
• Tradeverifyd — Helps businesses monitor and mitigate global supply chain risks.
• Vetr Health — Delivers veterinary care services directly to pet owners’ homes.
• Waterplan — Enables businesses to track and assess water-related risks.

Google’s Broader Investment in AI

This program represents just one facet of Google’s extensive investment in AI startups and research. TechCrunch recently reported on the launch of Google’s inaugural AI Futures Fund, designed to support startups building with the latest AI tools from DeepMind.

Last year, Google’s philanthropic arm committed $20 million to AI researchers and scientists, alongside a $20 million AI accelerator program for nonprofits developing AI technology. Sundar Pichai also announced the creation of a $120 million Global AI Opportunity Fund to broaden access to AI education worldwide.

In addition to the American Infrastructure program, Google operates other academies aimed at supporting founders, including the Founders Academy and Growth Academy. A Google representative confirmed earlier this year that the Google for Startups Founders Fund would also begin investing in AI-focused startups.