Google has officially opened applications for the 10th edition of its Google for Startups Accelerator Africa, marking a significant milestone for a programme that has become a cornerstone of the continent’s tech ecosystem.
In a strategic shift reflecting current global trends, this latest iteration places artificial intelligence at the heart of its mission.
The initiative is designed to equip growth-stage startups with the high-level mentorship, technical tools, and global networks necessary to scale AI-driven solutions across Africa’s diverse markets.
The programme is structured as a 12-week, equity-free accelerator specifically targeting startups between the Growth and Series A stages.
To be eligible, companies must be headquartered in Africa or be developing products aimed specifically at African consumers.
For this milestone cohort, Google is prioritising startups that leverage AI to address systemic challenges in critical sectors, including healthcare, climate change, agriculture, and financial services.
By adopting a hybrid format, the programme will combine the flexibility of virtual sessions with the high-impact collaboration of in-person meetings.
Since its inception in 2018, the accelerator has built a formidable track record of supporting African innovation.
Over the past eight years, it has assisted more than 180 startups across 17 different African countries.
The economic impact of these partnerships is substantial, as participating companies have collectively raised more than $350 million in follow-on funding and have been responsible for creating over 3,700 direct jobs.
This history of success has positioned the programme as a primary launchpad for high-growth firms looking to attract international investment and expand their regional footprint.
The decision to centre the 10th cohort on artificial intelligence comes at a time of rapid technological adoption across the continent.
Founders are increasingly turning to AI to enhance operational efficiency, unlock new revenue streams, and provide scalable solutions to long-standing infrastructure problems.
Consequently, Google intends for this programme to provide the technical and strategic framework needed for these founders to navigate the complexities of both local and international markets, essentially transforming their startups into the next generation of global tech champions.
Applications for this landmark edition are currently open following the announcement on 5 February 2026.
Google is encouraging founders working with machine learning and AI-driven solutions to apply here to join a prestigious network of alumni and industry leaders.
Beyond technical support, selected startups will gain access to specialized resources designed to ensure sustainable growth while solving the most pressing issues facing Africa today.
This milestone edition not only celebrates nearly a decade of acceleration but also reinforces the role of AI as a transformative tool for the continent’s future.