NITDA’s NCLAIR launch ₦100 million initiative to support local AI startups in Nigeria

The National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) has announced the launch of a ₦100 million ($61,000) AI fund initiative with support from Google. 

Note, the proposed fund is to support startups intending to harness the power of AI to drive development and innovation within the nation’s digital sector with resources to fund and scale their solutions.

NCAIR Launch AI Fund Initiative In Nigeria

Furthermore, the initiative follows a series of strategic programmes by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, aimed at harnessing the potential of AI to drive development, innovation, and well-being in Nigeria.

Earlier this year, the Ministry held the Artificial Intelligence Strategy Workshop in April. Additionally, he brought together key stakeholders to discuss the future of AI in Nigeria.

This was followed by the release of the National AI Intelligence Strategy in August, which outlined the country’s roadmap for integrating AI into various sectors to enhance growth and societal well-being.

The AI Fund is a significant step in actualizing these plans, providing Nigerian startups with the necessary resources to innovate and scale their AI solutions.

Also, the AI Fund is open to Nigerian-based startups that are focused on AI-driven technology solutions with the potential for significant impact.

Also Read: NITDA and NYSC Launch Phase 1 of Digital Literacy Drive Across 12 States

AI Fund To Empower Our Entrepreneurs With the Resources 

Selected startups will receive up to N10 million in funding, along with access to Google’s extensive resources.

The resources include AI tools, mentorship, and a global network designed to help them scale their innovations.

National Coordinator of NCAIR, Bunmi Ajala, noted that the partnership with Google reflects a shared commitment to advancing Nigeria’s tech sector.

She also added that the AI Fund is intended to provide entrepreneurs with the resources to create impactful AI solutions.

“Note, our partnership with Google is a reflection of our shared vision for Nigeria’s technological advancement.

“Also, the AI Fund is designed to empower our entrepreneurs with the resources they need to create impactful AI solutions.”

Finally, she said, “We are excited to see the transformative innovations that will emerge from this program”.

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