Google for Startups Accelerator Africa

The Accelerator is designed to bring the best of Google's programs, products, people and technology to communities across Africa. 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. 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. Accelerators include deep dives and workshops focused on product design, customer acquisition, and leadership development for founders. Eligible participants receive Early Access Program and Trusted Tester benefits for Google’s AI products. Startups interested in utilizing Cloud credits during the Accelerator may apply here, subject to eligibility review and approval. Participants are eligible to receive free Cloud TPU access to accelerate open source machine learning research. Key benefits: Equity-free support, Dedicated mentoring from Google teams, Exclusive invitations to technical bootcamps hosted by Google where offered, Access to Google's network of industry experts, Early access to new Google AI products and tools as relevant through Trusted Tester and EAP benefits, Eligible startups receive product credits, Support on company and product strategy, Work hand in hand with experts from Google on your biggest tech challenges. Entry criteria: Startups demonstrating traction, ideally growth-stage startups, Building a scalable product or service with a significant total addressable market and defensible growth model, Deeply technical, preferably leveraging technologies like machine learning and AI, Commitment from CTO and/or technical roles to participate and engage in required program sessions.

After the initial $5 million fund allocated throughout 2022, a new fund of $10 million has been announced for 2024 and 2025. Like the first fund, selected Ukraine-based startups will be announced on a rolling basis and will receive up to $100,000 in non-dilutive funding, as well as ongoing Google mentorship, product support, and up to $350,000 in Cloud credits. This hands-on support is designed to help Ukrainian entrepreneurs maintain and grow their businesses and build a foundation for post-war economic recovery.