Google has opened applications for the 2026 edition of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa, a three-month hybrid programme aimed at supporting growth-stage technology startups across the continent.
The accelerator is part of Google’s global initiative to back high-potential startups and combines Google’s technology, products, and expert teams to help founders address complex technical challenges and scale sustainable, high-impact businesses.
Each cohort will feature between 10 and 15 startups selected for an intensive programme that blends virtual learning with in-person sessions. Participants will receive one-on-one technical mentorship, take part in collaborative group sessions, and work on focused sprint projects designed to solve real business and engineering problems.
At the beginning of the programme, founders identify their most urgent technical and strategic challenges and are paired with relevant Google engineers and industry specialists for hands-on support throughout the accelerator. The programme also includes specialised workshops and deep-dive sessions covering product development, customer acquisition, leadership skills, and long-term growth planning.
Selected startups will be eligible for early access to select Google AI tools through the Early Access Program and Trusted Tester initiatives. Participants may also apply for Google Cloud credits and benefit from free access to Cloud TPUs to support open-source machine learning research and product scaling.
The accelerator is equity-free and offers extensive benefits, including dedicated mentorship from Google teams, strategic guidance on product and business direction, technical project partnerships, access to Google’s wider expert network, invitations to technical bootcamps, early exposure to new AI tools, and product credits to support growth.
The programme targets growth-stage startups with proven market traction, scalable business models, and strong technical foundations, particularly those leveraging machine learning and artificial intelligence. Applicants must demonstrate active involvement from their CTO or core technical team. Google has also reaffirmed its commitment to building diverse and inclusive cohorts across Africa.
Applications close on March 18, 2026. The programme will commence in April 2026 and conclude with a graduation in June 2026. Apply Here
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