Google has announced the launch of its Growth Academy: AI for Cybersecurity, a new 3-month program aimed at accelerating top startups leveraging artificial intelligence to innovate in cybersecurity. Applications are now open for qualifying seed to Series A startups based in the U.S. and Europe.
The program builds on the success of a previous European cohort that supported 15 cybersecurity startups in 2021. This year's academy expands eligibility to cybersecurity startups using AI in both the U.S. and Europe looking to grow globally.
To be eligible, startups must have demonstrated traction with funding (Seed to Series A), users, and revenue. They need to have a scalable product or service with a significant total addressable market and defensible growth model. Startups also must be focused on applying AI to cybersecurity challenges like prevention, protection, research, threat analysis, and threat sharing.
Over the course of the program, selected startup founders will participate in workshops and one-on-one mentoring focused on core business growth areas like strategy, sales, partnerships, and leadership training.
Mentors will include Google experts and veterans from the cybersecurity industry. Startups will also receive tailored technical support to implement AI responsibly, in line with Google's own AI principles and practices.
The program aims to help startups boost their customer base, generate more revenue, and expand internationally. With the market for AI cybersecurity projected to surge to $135 billion by 2030, Google seeks to enable startups to drive innovation and bring positive change responsibly.
Google will provide this exclusive program at no cost and with no equity requirement for participating startups. Applications are open through November 12th, with in-person kickoff and graduation events planned.
Philippe Humeau, co-founder of CrowdSec, praised the value of collaborating with Google's global cybersecurity leaders through a similar program last year.
Talking to some of the worldwide leaders in cybersecurity from VirusTotal or Mandiant is very useful. We have access to mentors who have an incredible track record in the industry and such a value can’t be quantified. - Philippe Humeau
The Growth Academy underscores Google's commitment to sharing its AI expertise and resources with startups innovating in emerging tech fields like cybersecurity. For budding AI cybersecurity startups, this program is a unique opportunity to gain the skills, strategies, and support to scale their solutions globally.