By Deborah Nnamdi
Google has unveiled the 2025 edition of its AI-focused startup accelerator in Africa, aimed at supporting early-stage companies with up to $350,000 in cloud credits and expert guidance, the company announced on Thursday.
According to the tech giant, the program is open to seed to Series A startups that have a live product, at least one founder of African descent, and a strong focus on responsible AI practices.
Chosen startups will benefit from up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits, personalized mentorship from Google and industry leaders, access to a global investor and partner network, and hands-on workshops covering technology, product development, leadership, and AI integration.
“Startups are Africa’s problem solvers. With the right resources, they can scale their impact far beyond local communities,” said Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa at Google, Folarin Aiyegbusi.
“This program reflects our belief that AI can be transformative when shaped by those who understand the context deeply.”
The initiative builds on successes such as Crop2Cash, a West African agritech startup and accelerator alumnus that leverages AI to onboard smallholder farmers, help them establish financial identities, and provide access to credit, traceable payments, and productivity-enhancing tools.
According to the tech giant, initiatives like this are opening up economic opportunities for farmers traditionally excluded from formal systems, highlighting the power of homegrown African innovation.
Since its launch in 2018, the accelerator has supported 140 startups across 17 African countries. Collectively, these startups have raised over $300 million in funding and created more than 3,000 jobs, with many scaling to become regional and global leaders.
The program underscores Google’s belief that African founders, with their deep understanding of local challenges and opportunities, are uniquely equipped to unlock AI’s transformative impact.
Applications are now open at startup.google.com/programs/accelerator/africa, inviting bold innovators to shape Africa’s next wave of economic growth.
