Closing Date: 18 March 2026
Applications are now open for the 2026 Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa!
Overview
A three-month hybrid accelerator program for growth-stage technology startups. The accelerator program is designed to bring the best of Google’s programs, products, people and technology to communities across Africa. The Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa will kick off in April 2026 and run until June 2026.
Applications are now open and Growth-stage startups are invited to apply
About the program
A global series of programs
Each cohort of 10-15 startups comes together to tackle technical challenges that can help grow their businesses through a mix of remote and in-person, 1-to-1, group learning sessions, and sprint projects.
Dedicated expert help
Founders outline the top technical challenges for their startup, and are paired with experts from Google and the industry to solve those challenges and grow their business.
Specialist deep dives
Accelerators include deep dives and workshops focused on product design, customer acquisition, and leadership development for founders.
Google product benefits
Early access to AI products: Eligible participants receive Early Access Program and Trusted Tester benefits for Google’s AI products.
Cloud credits: Eligible participants can apply for Google Cloud credits to support their business’ growth. Find out more.
Cloud TPUs: Participants are eligible to receive free Cloud TPU access to accelerate open source machine learning research. Find out more.
Key benefits
- Equity-free support Equity-free support: For duration of program.
- Mentoring Dedicated mentoring from Google teams.
- Training Exclusive invitations to technical bootcamps hosted by Google where offered.
- Access to experts Access to Google’s network of industry experts.
- Early access to AI products Access new Google AI products and tools as relevant through Trusted Tester and EAP benefits.
- Google product credits Eligible startups receive product credits.
- Strategic support Support on company and product strategy.
- Technical project partnership Work hand in hand with experts from Google on your biggest tech challenges.
Entry criteria
Startups demonstrating traction, ideally growth-stage startups
FAQs
Who should apply to the Google for Startups Accelerator Prograam?
The Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa is best suited for growth-stage revenue generating tech startups. The founder and appropriate team members must be available to join all program elements of their cohort. In order to ensure Google can provide meaningful value, startups should aim to leverage AI/ML technology in their product, service or operations and/or show an interest in leveraging this technology in the future.
Do you take equity or a fee to be a part of this program?
The Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa is equity-free for all participating startups. Please note that Google do require all founders (CEO and CTO) and appropriate team members to be available to join all elements of the program.
What are the criteria to receive product credits, and what does “eligible for product credits” mean?
Startups must meet specific criteria to be eligible for Google product credit offerings. To learn more about the Google Cloud credit eligibility requirements, please visit the Google Cloud startup page
Key Dates
- February 4, 2026 Applications Open Add to calendar
- March 18, 2026 Applications Close Add to calendar
- April, 2026 Program Kick-off
- June, 2026 Graduation
- June, 2026 Demo Day
Click Here To Apply
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