1. Google.org is launching a new program to fund nonprofits developing generative AI technology.
2. The program will include 21 initial nonprofits, technical training, workshops, mentors, and guidance from an “AI coach.”
3. Nonprofit organizations are increasingly focused on AI innovation, with barriers including cost, resources, and time.
Google.org has announced the launch of a new program called Google.org Accelerator: Generative AI, which aims to fund nonprofits developing tech leveraging generative AI. The $20 million program will support 21 nonprofits to start, including companies like Quill.org and World Bank. Nonprofits in the program will receive funding, technical training, workshops, mentors, and guidance from an AI coach. Additionally, Google employees will work full-time with three nonprofits to help launch their AI tools.
Some of the nonprofits involved in the program have specific goals for their generative AI tools. Tarjimly plans to use AI to translate languages for refugees, Benefits Data Trust is creating assistants to help caseworkers with public benefit enrollments, and mRelief is streamlining the SNAP benefits application process. Google.org director Annie Lewin stated that AI can help social impact teams be more productive, creative, and effective in serving their communities, often achieving goals in less time and at lower costs.
Despite the positive impact AI can have on nonprofits, there are still barriers to adoption, such as cost, resources, and time. A PwrdBy survey found that while most nonprofits believe AI aligns with their missions and makes their lives easier, many are not currently using the technology due to limitations in tools, awareness, training, and funding. However, there is a growing interest in AI among nonprofits, with an increasing number of AI-focused nonprofit startups emerging globally.