Applications have opened for the 2026 Google for Startups Accelerator 10th edition, a 12-week AI First hybrid programme designed for Series A startups based in Africa or building Africa-centric solutions using AI and machine learning. The programme is targeted at supporting AI-driven scientific breakthroughs across the continent.
The initiative reinforces Google’s commitment to accelerating AI-driven scientific and technological breakthroughs in Africa through a hybrid accelerator for growth-stage technology startups. The programme is designed to bring Google’s programs, products, people and technology to communities across Africa, using a mix of remote and in-person engagement.
The accelerator is part of a global series of programs. Each cohort, made up of between 10 and 15 startups, comes together to tackle technical challenges that can help grow their businesses. This is done through a mix of remote and in-person sessions, including one-to-one mentoring, group learning sessions, and sprint projects aimed at solving practical business and technology problems.
Participants are expected to benefit from early access to AI products, as eligible startups receive Early Access Program and Trusted Tester benefits for Google’s AI tools. Eligible participants can also apply for Google Cloud credits to support business growth. In addition, startups are eligible to receive free Cloud TPU access to accelerate open source machine learning research. The programme also provides access to Google’s network of industry experts, dedicated mentoring from Google teams, and exclusive invitations to technical bootcamps hosted by Google where available.
Eligibility criteria include startups demonstrating traction, ideally at growth stage, building scalable products or services with a significant total addressable market and defensible growth model. Startups should be deeply technical, preferably leveraging machine learning and AI, with commitment from CTOs or technical roles to engage in required sessions. Google is committed to building accelerator classes with great startups, and encourage applications from all qualified startups.
Entries open on Thursday, February 4, 2026, and close on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. The hybrid programme will start in April 2026 and run for 12 weeks.
Interested applicants are to apply through the official Google application form link https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe7aNTQze5Rcbkl22Igo2IVtPgRkfS0wXyWH3HXOJsW9ELSwA/viewform.
