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Google Accelerator Africa Returns with Equity-Free Support, Cloud Credits, and Early Access to AI Products for Startups

by Grace Ashiru February 6, 2026, 8:44 am

Applications are now open for the 2026 Google for Startups Accelerator Africa Program. This three-month hybrid accelerator program is designed for growth-stage technology startups. It aims to bring the best of Google’s programs, products, people, and technology to communities across Africa.

Program Details

A Global Series of Programs:
Each cohort of 10-15 startups collaborates to tackle technical challenges that can help grow their businesses. This is achieved through a combination of remote and in-person 1-to-1 sessions, group learning, and sprint projects.

Dedicated Expert Help:
Founders will outline the top technical challenges their startup faces and will be paired with experts from Google and the industry to solve those challenges and propel business growth.

Specialist Deep Dives:
The accelerator will feature deep dives and workshops on product design, customer acquisition, and leadership development for founders.

Google Product Benefits

Early Access to AI Products:
Eligible participants will receive Early Access Program and Trusted Tester benefits for Google’s AI products.
Cloud Credits:
Participants may apply for Google Cloud credits to help support their business growth.
Cloud TPUs:
Startups can gain free access to Cloud TPUs to accelerate open-source machine learning research.

Benefits

Equity-Free Support:
Participants receive equity-free support throughout the program.
Mentoring:
Startups will have access to dedicated mentoring from Google teams.
Training:
Exclusive invitations to technical bootcamps hosted by Google where offered.
Access to Experts:
Google’s network of industry experts will be available to assist startups.
Early Access to AI Products:
Startups will gain early access to new Google AI products and tools through Trusted Tester and EAP benefits.
Google Product Credits:
Eligible startups will receive product credits to support their business.
Strategic Support:
Strategic guidance on company and product strategy will be provided.
Technical Project Partnership:
Startups will work closely with Google experts to address major technical challenges.

Entry Requirements

Startups demonstrating traction (growth-stage preferred).
Building a scalable product or service with a significant total addressable market and a defensible growth model.
Preferably leveraging technologies like machine learning and AI.
Commitment from the CTO and/or technical roles to participate and engage in all required program sessions.
Google encourages applications from all qualified startups.