The Google Data Center Community AI Fellowship, offered in partnership with Watson Institute, is a transformative opportunity for aspiring technologists and community advocates to develop AI solutions addressing local challenges near Google’s data center regions. This intensive nine-month hybrid program combines cutting-edge technical training with community leadership development, creating a unique pipeline for participants to become AI-for-good practitioners. Fellows will receive hands-on instruction in machine learning fundamentals, responsible AI development, and cloud computing tools directly from Google engineers, while simultaneously designing and implementing community impact projects that leverage these technologies. The program’s distinctive “civic tech” approach emphasizes developing AI applications for pressing local issues such as environmental monitoring, educational equity, healthcare access, and small business support, with particular focus on serving underserved populations near data center locations. Participants will benefit from a dual mentorship structure pairing Google technical experts with seasoned social entrepreneurs, culminating in demo days where fellows pitch their projects to potential funders and community stakeholders. Beyond the $15,000 project implementation grant, the fellowship provides access to Google Cloud credits, specialized workshops on AI ethics and policy, and lifetime membership in an international network of tech-for-good innovators. This initiative represents Google’s commitment to fostering equitable AI ecosystems by investing in local talent who understand both technological possibilities and community needs.
Eligibility:
Mandatory Requirements:
- Residency in designated communities near Google Data Center regions (specific locations listed on the website)
- Demonstrated interest in AI/tech through education, work, or community projects
- Commitment to full program participation (5-10 hours/week virtual + 2 in-person retreats)
Competitive Advantages:
- Women, underrepresented minorities, and non-traditional tech candidates strongly encouraged
- Applicants addressing environmental justice or workforce development priorities
Benefits:
Financial & Professional Support:
- Training Phase:
- $3,000 living stipend
- Google Cloud Platform credits ($5,000 value)
- Project Phase:
- $15,000 implementation grant
- Prototype development support
- Network Access:
- Google mentor matching
- Invitation to Google’s Annual AI Summit
How to Apply?
Application Components:
- Online form via Watson Institute Portal
- 1,000-word project proposal addressing:
- Local challenge identification
- Proposed AI solution framework
- Two recommendation letters (1 technical, 1 community-focused)
Selection Timeline:
- Finalists notified for interviews [8 weeks post-deadline]
- Cohort announced [12 weeks post-deadline]
Contact Information:
Email: [aifellowship@watson.is]
For more information, visit the official website.
𝗧𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗼𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗿𝗼𝘄
