Google has opened applications for the 10th cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa, a flagship program designed to support AI-driven and machine-learning-powered startups across the continent. The announcement highlights Africa’s rising status as a global innovation hub and Google’s long-term commitment to nurturing technology-led growth.
Now accepting applications through March 18, 2026, the accelerator is built around an “AI-first” ethos, meaning that artificial intelligence and machine learning form the core of the program’s curriculum, mentorship, and technical engagement. Successful applicants will participate in a 12-week hybrid accelerator combining virtual and in-person sessions, enabling founders to refine products, scale operations, and tackle real-world problems.
The Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program is a highly competitive initiative that targets Seed- to Series-A-stage startups developing AI, machine learning, or data-centric solutions that address meaningful challenges across sectors such as healthcare, fintech, agriculture, climate tech, and more. Participants gain access to:
Startups accepted into the program will be equipped with resources to strengthen their research and product execution, with the view of helping them evolve into long-term, sustainable technology companies and potential regional leaders in innovation.
Since its launch in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa has become one of the continent’s most impactful support programs for tech founders. Over the past nine cohorts, the accelerator has nurtured more than 180 startups from 17 African countries, helping them collectively raise over $350 million in funding and create more than 3,700 direct jobs.Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem for Google in Africa, said the 10th cohort underscores the growing maturity of the continent’s tech ecosystem and the strategic importance of AI innovation in driving economic development, scientific research, and social impact on the continent.
Startups interested in joining the 10th cohort can apply via the official Google for Startups Accelerator Africa portal at g.co/acceleratorafrica before the March 18, 2026 deadline. Applicants are encouraged to prepare details about their technology, team, traction, market focus and how AI or machine learning powers their solution.Participation is equity-free, meaning startups do not give up company ownership in exchange for support, making it an attractive opportunity for founders seeking growth assistance without diluting ownership.