Grow AI Accelerator for Social Impact Launched with $250K Grants and Expert Support

The six-month, equity-free programme is now open for applications until 8 December 2024.

Social Tides has launched its second Grow AI Accelerator, designed to empower organisations leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for social good.

Powered by INCO in collaboration with Share it and supported by Google.org, the accelerator provides a comprehensive package of training, mentoring, and funding to help organisations scale their technology and amplify their social impact. Applications for the programme are open until 8 December 2024.

Programme Overview

The Grow AI Accelerator empowers organisations developing innovative AI/ML solutions aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It offers selected organisations an opportunity to receive expert-led support across various areas, including AI/ML technology, business development, impact strategy, and marketing. Ten organisations will be chosen to participate in this second cohort, gaining access to grants of up to $250,000 and personalised mentorship from industry leaders.

Key Programme Highlights:

• Comprehensive AI/ML Training: Participants will receive in-depth training in AI and ML technologies alongside broader business development, marketing, and impact strategy support. The training is delivered through workshops, guest lectures, and peer learning sessions.
• Expert Mentoring: Organisations will be paired with experienced mentors from the networks of INCO and Share it, receiving personalised advice and guidance on scaling their AI-driven solutions for maximum social impact.
• Networking Opportunities: The programme fosters engagement with like-minded entrepreneurs from across Europe working at the intersection of AI and social impact. This network provides invaluable opportunities to exchange ideas, collaborate, and raise visibility within the AI and social entrepreneurship communities.
• Financial Support: Each selected organisation will have access to a grant of up to $250,000, allowing them to expand and implement their AI/ML solutions more effectively.

Eligibility Criteria

The Grow AI Accelerator invites applications from organisations that meet the following criteria:

• AI/ML Solutions Aligned with the UN SDGs: Organisations must develop AI—or ML-based solutions that address key global challenges, such as poverty, inequality, climate action, and more, in line with the UN’s SDGs.
• Market Traction and Growth Strategy: Applicants should have demonstrated initial market traction with a strong strategy for scaling their solutions.
• Responsible AI: Organisations must be committed to ethical AI practices, ensuring that their technologies are developed and deployed to promote fairness, transparency, and positive social outcomes.
• Geographic Reach: The programme is open to organisations based in Sweden, Italy, the UK, Spain, Ukraine, Poland, the Czech Republic, Romania, and Lithuania.

Selection Process and Timeline

The accelerator’s selection process is highly competitive. Applications will be reviewed by a panel of experts in AI, social entrepreneurship, and impact investment. Shortlisted organisations will be invited for interviews, and the final selection will be based on the strength of the organisation’s AI/ML solutions, market potential, and social impact.

• Application Deadline: 8 December 2024
• Announcement of Selected Organisations: End of February 2025
• Programme Start Date: March 2025

How to Apply

Organisations interested in applying for the Grow AI Accelerator can visit the programme’s website at Social Tides to submit their applications before the 8 December 2024 deadline. The application process includes submitting details about the organisation’s AI/ML solution, its alignment with the SDGs, and its growth strategy.

For organisations looking to make a real difference through AI, the Grow AI Accelerator represents a transformative opportunity to access financial resources and the knowledge and networks needed to drive scalable and sustainable social change.