Meta, DFF Launch Regional AI Accelerator
The first cohort consists of 22 startups and eight AI professionals who will participate in a four-week AI design sprint.
Meta and Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) announced the launched of Llama Design Drive, the first artificial intelligence (AI) accelerator of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Powered by Startupbootcamp, this initiative aims to connect startups and corporations to develop innovative AI solutions using Meta’s open-source large language model, Llama 3.1.
Read More: Meta Launches Llama Impact Innovation Awards
The first cohort consists of 22 startups and eight AI professionals who will participate in a four-week AI design sprint. The program focuses on tackling real-world business challenges presented by four leading UAE companies: Emirates Airlines, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Holding, and Chalhoub Group. These companies are seeking AI-driven solutions for complex issues ranging from enhancing public transportation to improving greenhouse gas emissions reporting.
During the sprint, participants will have access to the DFF’s AREA 2071 innovation hub, where they will attend workshops and receive mentorship to help them refine their products.
Emirates Airlines is looking to use AI to improve accessibility for travelers, while the RTA aims to integrate multi-source mobility data to optimize public transport. Dubai Holding is focused on boosting the accuracy of greenhouse gas emissions reporting as part of its Net Zero 2050 goals. Chalhoub Group is working to enhance customer satisfaction and predictive inventory management in the retail sector through advanced analytics.
Participants will collaborate closely with Meta’s engineering teams and could be considered for Meta's global program, with potential funding of up to $500,000.
In June, the DFF and Meta introduced a new business incubator program powered by Meta's "Llama 3" AI model.
The program is designed to use Large Language Models (LLMs) to drive innovation in products and services across various industries.
This initiative aligns with the Dubai Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence (DUB.AI), supporting Dubai's economic agenda (D33) by adding AED 100 billion ($27.23 billion) through digital transformation and enhancing economic productivity by 50% via innovation and digital solutions.
In the same month, Meta also announced the launch of the Meta Llama Impact Innovation Awards, aimed at supporting organizations in Africa, the Middle East, and Turkey that leverage Meta's large language models, Llama 2 or Llama 3, to drive social impact with grants of up to $35,000.