Impact Challenge Program by Google.org Generative AI Accelerator

Introduction

Google.org is spearheading an initiative to harness the transformative power of generative AI for social good with the 2025 Impact Challenge Program: Generative AI Accelerator. This program is a call to action for nonprofits, civic entities, academic institutions, and social enterprises to develop innovative AI-powered solutions that can create a lasting impact.

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What is the Generative AI Accelerator?

Launched in 2024, the Generative AI Accelerator is designed to support organizations in building AI-driven solutions that can reach millions of beneficiaries. The program concentrates on three pivotal areas:

1. Knowledge, Skills, and Learning: Enhancing AI literacy, career readiness, and technology-enabled education to empower individuals and communities.
2. Scientific Advancement: Accelerating breakthroughs and AI-enabled scientific innovations, bridging the gap between research and practical applications for the greater good.
3. Resilient Communities: Building stronger local communities and ensuring a safe digital world by addressing challenges in climate, society, and health.

Eligibility and Application Process

The global open call for applications runs from January 7 to February 10, 2025. Eligible organizations must demonstrate the feasibility, impactful use of generative AI and scalability of their proposed solutions. Applications should include a realistic plan for execution, access to necessary resources, and expected positive outcomes for end beneficiaries.

Benefits of Participation

Selected organizations will receive:

• A share of $30 million in funding.
• Six months of structured support.
• Access to dedicated pro bono assistance from Google employees.
• Technical training.
• Google Cloud credits.

Focus Areas

1. Knowledge, Skills, and Learning: Empowering people with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the AI-driven world. This includes AI literacy, career readiness, and technology-enabled education.
2. Scientific Advancement: Enabling AI-powered scientific research and practical applications that drive positive societal impact.
3. Resilient Communities: Strengthening communities and promoting safety in the digital world, addressing critical issues like climate change, societal challenges, and healthcare.

FAQs

1. Who is eligible to apply for the Generative AI Accelerator?
   • Nonprofits, civic entities, academic institutions, and social enterprises are eligible to apply.
2. What is the application deadline?
   • The application deadline is February 10, 2025.
3. What are the focus areas of the program?
   • The focus areas are Knowledge, Skills, and Learning; Scientific Advancement; and Resilient Communities.
4. What benefits will selected organizations receive?
   • Selected organizations will receive a share of $30 million, six months of structured support, access to dedicated pro bono assistance from Google employees, technical training, and Google Cloud credits.
5. How can organizations demonstrate the feasibility of their proposed solutions?
   • Organizations must outline a realistic plan for execution, leverage necessary resources, and demonstrate access to data, models, and technical or domain expertise.
6. What is the expected impact of the program?
   • The program aims to reach millions of beneficiaries and drive significant and measurable positive outcomes for end beneficiaries.
7. How long is the support provided?
   • The program offers six months of structured support.
8. What kind of technical training is provided?
   • Technical training includes AI-specific skills, project management, and the use of Google Cloud resources.
9. What is included in pro bono assistance?
   • Pro bono assistance includes mentorship, technical guidance, and support from Google employees.
10. What are Google Cloud credits?
    • Google Cloud credits provide access to Google’s cloud computing services, essential for developing and deploying AI solutions.
11. How will the funding be distributed?
    • The funding will be distributed based on the project’s scope, impact, and feasibility, with a total pool of $30 million.
12. Can organizations outside the US apply?
    • Yes, the program is open to organizations globally.
13. Are there any specific technical requirements for the proposals?
    • Proposals should demonstrate the use of generative AI technology and its potential for scalability and impact.
14. What is generative AI?
    • Generative AI refers to artificial intelligence systems capable of creating content, such as text, images, or music, based on learned patterns from data.
15. How does the program support AI literacy?
    • The program includes educational components to enhance understanding and application of AI technologies among participants.
16. What are the key criteria for selection?
    • Key criteria include feasibility, impact potential, scalability, and alignment with the program’s focus areas.
17. Will there be any follow-up after the six months of support?
    • Google.org may offer continued support and networking opportunities to successful participants.
18. Can for-profit organizations apply?
    • Only nonprofits, civic entities, academic institutions, and social enterprises are eligible.
19. What documentation is required for the application?
    • Documentation includes a detailed project proposal, budget, implementation plan, and proof of eligibility.
20. How can organizations apply?
    • Organizations can apply through the Google.org website by completing the online application form before the deadline.

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