In a bold move, Google has committed a cumulative $37 million in funding to advance artificial intelligence (AI) research, skills development, and innovation across Africa. At the heart of this announcement? Empowering communities, building infrastructure, and creating space for African-led, Africa-centered tech solutions.
Here is what is brewing
AI for Food Security and Women in Agriculture
Google.org is investing $25 million into a multi-partner initiative to transform food systems in Africa. The AI Collaborative for Food Security will bring together nonprofits, researchers, and local organizations to build smart tools that forecast hunger, support climate resilience, and guide smallholder farmers — many of whom are women — through better decision-making.
For the female farmer navigating unpredictable rains or fluctuating markets, this is more than just tech. It’s dignity. It’s survival.
Language is Power
Imagine digital tools that actually understand your mother tongue. Google just pledged $3 million to support Masakhane Research Foundation, an open-source collective building AI tools in over 40 African languages.
This means improved translation, speech tools, and better access to the digital world — especially for women in rural areas who may be excluded by language barriers.
Backing African Startups
Google isn’t just supporting big institutions. Through a catalytic fund, they’re investing in over 100 early-stage AI startups that are tackling real-world problems in healthcare, education, and agriculture. These startups will receive funding, mentorship, and technical support from Google experts.
For women building tech-for-good businesses, this is a potential game-changer.
Accra Gets Africa’s First AI Community Center
Google is opening an AI Community Center in Accra, Ghana — a space for training, dialogue, and collaboration across four themes: AI literacy, tech for communities, arts and culture, and social impact.
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Expect workshops, innovation labs, and safe spaces where girls, developers, and dreamers can co-create the future of AI — grounded in African values.
100,000 Scholarships for AI & Digital Skills
To build the next generation of AI leaders, Google is offering 100,000 Career Certificate scholarships in Ghana, focusing on AI, Prompt Engineering, IT Support, Data Analytics, and Cybersecurity. These self-paced programs will equip students — especially women and girls — with in-demand skills to thrive in the digital economy.
Google.org is also committing $7 million to support AI education in Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Ghana — focusing on local curriculum development, online safety, and inclusive training. Plus, two new $1 million research grants will fund advanced AI research at institutions in South Africa and Pretoria, opening doors for African women in science and academia.
“Africa is home to some of the most important and inspiring work in AI today,” said James Manyika, Google’s SVP for Research. “We’re supporting the next wave of innovation through long-term investment and local partnerships.”