Applications are currently open for the 10th cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa, a three-month hybrid accelerator program for growth-stage, AI-driven technology startups. Scheduled for 2026, the program is designed to deliver the best of Google's programs, products, people, and technology to communities across Africa. This initiative is part of Google’s long-term $1 billion commitment to the continent's digital transformation and marks a strategic shift toward AI-first and deep-tech innovation, reflecting Africa’s transition to more advanced, research-driven technologies.
Program Structure and Format
• Duration: The 12-week program will run from April to June 2026.
• Format: The program features a hybrid model, combining both remote and in-person engagement.
• Cohort Size: Each cohort consists of 10 to 15 startups.
• Methodology: Participants engage in a mix of remote and in-person activities, including one-to-one sessions, group learning, and sprint projects designed to tackle key technical challenges.
Core Program Focus
• Dedicated Expert Help: Founders outline their startup's top technical challenges and are paired with experts from Google and the industry to solve them.
• Specialist Deep Dives: The accelerator includes in-depth workshops focused on product design, customer acquisition, and leadership development for founders.
• Curriculum Focus: The program addresses common scale-up challenges, including product refinement, architecture, go-to-market strategy, and the responsible deployment of AI in African contexts.
Key Benefits for Selected Startups
• Equity-Free Support: The program is offered equity-free for its duration, allowing startups to scale without ownership dilution.
• Mentoring: Participants receive dedicated mentoring from Google teams.
• Training: Startups get exclusive invitations to technical bootcamps hosted by Google where offered.
• Access to Experts: The program provides access to Google's network of industry experts.
• Strategic Support: Participants receive support on their company and product strategy.
• Technical Project Partnership: Startups work hand-in-hand with experts from Google on their most significant technical challenges.
Google Product and Infrastructure Benefits
• Early Access to AI Products: Eligible participants receive Early Access Program (EAP) and Trusted Tester benefits for Google’s AI products.
• Cloud Credits: Eligible participants can apply for Google Cloud credits to support their business’s growth.
• Cloud TPUs: Participants are eligible to receive free Cloud TPU access to accelerate open-source machine learning research.
• Google Product Credits: Eligible startups receive product credits.
Entry Criteria
• Startup Stage: The program is best suited for growth-stage or Series A startups that are demonstrating traction.
• Product Scalability: Applicants should be building a scalable product or service with a significant total addressable market and a defensible growth model.
• Technical Focus: The program seeks deeply technical startups, preferably leveraging technologies like machine learning and AI.
• Team Commitment: A commitment from the CTO and/or technical roles to participate and engage in all required program sessions is necessary.
• Geographic Focus: The program is open to startups headquartered in Africa or building Africa-focused solutions.
Key Dates and Timeline
• Applications Open: February 4, 2026
• Applications Close: March 18, 2026
• Program Kick-off: April 2026
• Graduation & Demo Day: June 2026
This accelerator provides a unique opportunity for founders to access technical infrastructure and expertise, helping to position African startups as key innovation engines on the continent. For complete details, eligibility requirements, and access to the application portal, interested parties should consult the official Google for Startups Accelerator Africa Program webpage.