African AI Startups can now apply for the 2025 Google Accelerator

Google has announced the commencement of applications for the 9th Cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator Program. The three-month hybrid program, designed for Seed to Series A AI-driven startups in Africa, is structured to bring out the best of Google’s programmes, products, people, and technology to African communities.

The programme is scheduled to commence in June. The 9th cohort will host 10-15 startups tackling everyday challenges. The trainings will be delivered through a hybrid of remote and in-person sessions with sprint projects. 

Also, founders would be paired with Google industry experts to take those challenges and develop business ideas. 

“We are committed to building accelerator classes with great startups and encourage applications from all qualified startups. The Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa is completely free for all participating startups, and Google does not take any equity,” the statement reads.

Google noted that the accelerator program will involve deep dives and workshops on product design, customer acquisition, and leadership development. To provide meaningful value, the company emphasised that founders should leverage AI/ML technology in their products, services, or operations.

“Startups are Africa’s problem solvers. With the right resources, they can scale their impact far beyond local communities. This program reflects our belief that AI can be transformative when shaped by those who understand the context deeply,” said Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa at Google.

As AI’s potential to accelerate Africa’s development is real, the company explained that it is investing to ensure African startups lead that charge. According to a report, AI could add $1.3 trillion to Africa’s economy by 2030, but only if bold innovation is supported at the grassroots.

Since its inception in 2018, the programme has supported 140 startups from 17 African countries and has collectively raised over $300 million and created more than 3,000 direct jobs.

Also Read: Meet Immigify, Nigerian AI-powered startup selected for 2025 Techstars Accelerator.

As part of the benefits, eligible startups would receive up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits, dedicated support from startup experts, technical training, and access to key industry events. They would also receive 30 days of free Cloud TPU access through the TPU Research Cloud program to accelerate their open-source machine learning research.

Applications for the Accelerator program will run from April 10 to May 9, 2025. Startups can apply here.

Google Accelerator: eligibility and calendar 

While applications are only open to startups between the Seed and Series A stages, ideas must focus on building a scalable product or service with a significant total addressable market and a realistic growth model.

Startups must also be deeply technical and leverage machine learning and artificial intelligence. They must also demonstrate an unwavering commitment from the CTO and/or technical roles to participate and engage in required sessions.

See the 2025 Google for Startups Accelerator Program timeline below:

• Application Period: April 10, 2025 – May 9, 2025
• Program Kick-off: June 2025
• Graduation and Demo Day: August 2025

Notably, the demo day is where startups pitch their ideas to potential investors and partners. This makes the accelerator program a revenue-generation opportunity for African tech startups.

Meet the 8th cohort

The 8th Cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator program, which was held from July 29 to September 20, 2024, consisted of ten tech startups from Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa, all using artificial intelligence to address significant challenges across various sectors, including fintech, climate, health, and more.

The Nigerian startups selected include CDIAL AI, Earthbond, MyAIFactchecker, NextCounsel, and Rana Energy. Others are Nakili (Kenya), Nobuk Africa (Kenya), Triply (Kenya), Fixxr (South Africa), and Lifesten Health (Rwanda). 

Startups also enjoy early access to new Google products and tools, market spotlight, revenue opportunities, and access to a network of industry experts.

Through the programme, selected startups were included in the Google for Startups Accelerator Global Community and network of alumni and mentors, to enhance collaboration and support.

Google demonstrated the critical role of startups in fostering economic development and technological innovation across Africa, especially amid the current “funding winter” in Sub-Saharan Africa.