Written by Applications are open for the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa 2026, a three-month hybrid accelerator programme designed to support growth-stage technology startups across Africa. The programme brings together the best of Google’s products, people, and technology to help founders solve critical technical challenges and scale sustainable, high-impact businesses.
About the Accelerator
The Google for Startups Accelerator Africa is part of a global series of accelerator programmes supporting high-potential startups worldwide. Each cohort brings together 10 to 15 startups for an intensive experience that combines remote and in-person sessions, one-on-one technical support, group learning, and focused sprint projects.
The programme is tailored to founders building scalable, deeply technical products, with a strong emphasis on solving real business and engineering challenges.
Programme Structure
Participating startups work closely with Google experts and industry specialists to address their most pressing technical and strategic needs. Founders identify their top challenges at the start of the programme and are paired with relevant experts who provide hands-on guidance throughout the accelerator.
In addition to personalised support, the programme includes specialist deep dives and workshops focused on product design, customer acquisition, leadership development, and long-term growth strategy.
Google Product Benefits
- Eligible participants gain early access to selected Google AI products through Early Access Program and Trusted Tester opportunities.
- Startups may also apply for Google Cloud credits to support product development and scaling.
- In addition, participants are eligible for free access to Cloud TPUs to accelerate open-source machine learning research.
Benefits
The Google for Startups Accelerator Africa offers equity-free support for the full duration of the programme.
- Startups receive dedicated mentoring from Google teams, strategic support on company and product direction, and hands-on technical project partnerships to tackle complex engineering challenges.
- Participants also gain access to Google’s network of industry experts, exclusive invitations to technical bootcamps hosted by Google where available, early access to new AI tools, and product credits designed to support growth and innovation.
Who Should Apply
- The program is open to growth-stage startups that demonstrate clear market traction and are building scalable products or services with significant total addressable markets and defensible growth models.
- Ideal applicants are deeply technical, preferably leveraging technologies such as machine learning and artificial intelligence.
- Applicants must show strong commitment from their CTO and/or core technical team to actively participate in program sessions and technical engagements.
- Google encourages applications from all qualified startups and is committed to building diverse and inclusive accelerator cohorts across Africa.
Application Timeline
- Applications close on March 18, 2026.
- The programme kicks off in April 2026.
- Graduation takes place in June 2026.
How to Apply
Interested startups can apply through the official Google for Startups Accelerator Africa page.
Application link: [https://startup.google.com/programs/accelerator/africa/]