Google has unveiled the 2025 edition of its AI-focused Startup Accelerator for Africa, aimed at supporting early-stage startups with up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits and expert mentorship.
In a statement released Thursday, Google said the program targets seed to Series A startups with live products, at least one founder of African descent, and a commitment to building responsible AI solutions.
Selected startups will benefit from:
– Up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits
– Personalized mentorship from Google and industry professionals
– Access to a global network of investors and partners
– Workshops on tech development, product strategy, leadership, and responsible AI implementation
“Startups are Africa’s problem solvers. With the right support, they can create impact far beyond their communities,” said Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa at Google. “This program reflects our belief that AI is most powerful when developed by those who deeply understand their local context.”
The accelerator has previously supported companies like Crop2Cash, a West African agritech startup leveraging AI to help smallholder farmers access credit, manage traceable payments, and improve productivity. These innovations, Google said, are unlocking new economic opportunities for underserved communities.
Since 2018, Google’s accelerator has backed 140 startups across 17 African countries. Collectively, these startups have raised over $300 million and created more than 3,000 jobs.
Google emphasized that African entrepreneurs are uniquely positioned to shape the future of AI by applying it to real-world challenges in their communities.
Applications are now open at [startup.google.com/programs/accelerator/africa](https://startup.google.com/programs/accelerator/africa).
