Google has officially opened applications for the 2025 edition of its Google for Startups Accelerator Africa, inviting AI-driven startups across the continent to apply for its ninth cohort. The three-month hybrid program, set to begin in June, is designed for startups at the Seed to Series A stage that are building scalable, AI-powered solutions to Africa’s everyday challenges.
Selected startups will benefit from up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits, technical training, mentorship from Google experts, and early access to new Google products. Participants will also have the chance to pitch their innovations to investors and partners during the program’s Demo Day in August.
Folarin Aiyegbusi, Google’s Head of Startup Ecosystem in Africa, emphasized the program’s mission: “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.”
Since its launch in 2018, the accelerator has supported 140 startups from 17 African countries, helping them raise over $300 million and create more than 3,000 jobs. The program is entirely free, with Google taking no equity from participants.
Applications are open from April 10 to May 9, 2025. To qualify, startups must demonstrate strong technical leadership, a commitment to leveraging AI, and a clear plan for growth. The initiative aims to ensure African innovators lead the continent’s digital transformation, with AI projected to add $1.3 trillion to Africa’s economy by 2030.
For African founders ready to make an impact, this is a unique opportunity to access world-class resources and join a growing community of tech leaders shaping the continent’s future.
