TL;DR
- Google announces the second cohort of its AI Infrastructure Academy, backing startups using AI in transportation, cybersecurity, education, and more
- The equity-free program spans four months with virtual support and in-person summit
- Participating companies must demonstrate proof of traction and 6+ months of runway
- Alumni from the 2024 cohort include Cloverleaf AI and Zordi
- Startups in this year’s class range from RNA therapeutics to satellite data processing
Accelerating America’s AI Backbone
Google has revealed the second group of startups selected for its AI-powered American Infrastructure Academy, a program launched to support early-stage companies using artificial intelligence to improve critical sectors like transportation, healthcare, education, and cybersecurity.
The four-month accelerator, which is equity-free, provides tailored leadership coaching, technical support, and go-to-market strategy guidance. Though primarily conducted online, the program includes a planned in-person summit at Google HQ later in the year.
Applicants had to meet stringent selection criteria, including a minimum of six months’ runway and proven market traction. The application window opened in April 2025 and closed in mid-May.
Track Record of Results
Google’s inaugural cohort in 2024 produced notable outcomes, including:
- Cloverleaf AI: a government-focused voice AI company that raised a $2.8M seed round
- Zordi: an autonomous agriculture startup backed with $20M from Khlosa Ventures
Google’s startup ecosystem — spanning Google for Startups, Cloud AI, and DeepMind — continues to drive commercial and impact-based ventures.
Meet the 2025 AI Infrastructure Cohort
Below is the full list of 18 startups selected for this year’s program:
| Startup | Focus Area |
| Attuned Intelligence | AI-powered voice agents for call centers |
| Block Harbor | Cybersecurity solutions for vehicle systems |
| CircNova | RNA-based therapeutic analysis via AI |
| CloudRig | Project scheduling AI for construction contractors |
| Making Space | Employment connections for disabled jobseekers |
| MedHaul | AI-powered non-emergency transportation for healthcare |
| Mpathic | Workflow automation and oversight for clinical trials |
| Nimblemind.ai | Health data structuring and organization |
| Omnia Fishing | Personalized AI-driven fishing planning |
| Otrafy | AI supply chain management automation |
| Partsimony | Intelligent supply chain orchestration |
| Satlyt | Satellite data processing and analytics |
| StudyFetch | Adaptive learning tools for students and educators |
| Tansy AI | Personal healthcare record and appointment management |
| Tradeverifyd | AI analysis of global supply chain risk |
| Vetr Health | At-home veterinary care through AI scheduling |
| Waterplan | Corporate water risk monitoring and sustainability insights |
Each company will gain access to Google’s product experts, cloud engineers, and partner network throughout the program.
Strategic Philanthropy Meets Practical Impact
This initiative complements several recent efforts by Google to expand the AI startup and research ecosystem, including:
- Launch of the AI Futures Fund to support startups building with DeepMind tools
- A $20 million philanthropic commitment to nonprofit AI initiatives
- A $120 million Global AI Opportunity Fund aimed at expanding access to AI education worldwide
Other programs under Google’s umbrella include the Founders Academy and Growth Academy, both focused on emerging and scaling ventures.
Google AI Infrastructure Academy at a Glance
| Program Attribute | Details |
| Cohort Year | 2025 (2nd cohort) |
| Program Length | 4 months |
| Application Criteria | 6+ months runway, proof of traction |
| Equity Requirements | None (equity-free participation) |
| Mode | Primarily virtual + 1 in-person summit |
| Notable Alumni | Cloverleaf AI, Zordi |
| Key Focus Areas | Cybersecurity, Education, Health, Infrastructure |
A Pipeline for AI Innovation
The American Infrastructure Academy’s model — combining equity-free access, expert-led programming, and high-bar admissions — positions it as a premier channel for launching applied AI ventures in the U.S.
With the AI startup market projected to exceed $1 trillion in enterprise value by 2030, Google’s continued focus on supporting deep-tech founders strengthens both commercial innovation and national competitiveness.
