Entries Open for 2026 Google for Startups Accelerator Africa

By Aduragbemi Omiyale

Applications for a 12-week AI First hybrid programme, designed for Series A startups based in Africa or building Africa-centric solutions with AI and machine learning, have opened at g.co/acceleratorafrica.

This is an initiative of Google and it reenforces the tech giant’s commitment to accelerating AI-driven scientific and technological breakthroughs across the continent.

The programme, known as the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa, is in its 10th edition in 2026 and it is targeted as AI-driven scientific breakthroughs.

Entries for the cohort began today, Thursday, February 5, 2026, and will close on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, with the hybrid programme starting in April 2026 for 12 weeks.

A statement from the organisers disclosed that participants will benefit from access to Google’s AI expertise and technical resources, alongside mentorship from seasoned AI professionals and invaluable networking opportunities.

Since its inception in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa program has supported 180+ startups from 17 African countries. Collectively, these startups have raised over $350 million in funding and created more than 3,700 direct job opportunities in the region.

“Africa’s tech landscape is seeing a vibrant shift toward deep-tech innovation. For Class 10, we are focusing on the potential of AI to drive health and societal benefits, providing the infrastructure and expertise to turn these startups into the research labs of the continent,” the Head of Startup Ecosystem for Africa, Folarin Aiyegbusi.