Google seeks AI-driven African startups as accelerator enters 10th cohort

Google has opened applications for the 10th cohort of its Google for Startups Accelerator Africa, targeting African startups using artificial intelligence to drive scientific, health and societal breakthroughs.

The milestone cohort marks nearly a decade of the U.S. technology giant’s support for Africa’s startup ecosystem and reflects a growing push by global firms to back AI-led innovation emerging from the continent.

The 12-week hybrid programme follows an “AI-first” model and is open to Series A startups based in Africa or building Africa-focused solutions using artificial intelligence and machine learning. Selected startups will gain access to Google’s AI expertise, technical infrastructure, mentorship from experienced AI practitioners and networking opportunities with investors and industry partners.

Folarin Aiyegbusi, Google’s head of startup ecosystem for Africa, in a press statement, said, “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.”

Read also: Google, African Partners launch WAXAL to expand AI access across Africa

Since its launch in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa has supported more than 180 startups across 17 African countries. Those companies have collectively raised over $350 million in funding and created more than 3,700 direct jobs, according to Google.

The focus on AI comes as African startups increasingly apply machine learning to challenges such as healthcare delivery, scientific research, financial inclusion and climate resilience, even as access to capital remains tighter globally.

Applications for the 10th cohort are open until March 18, 2026, Google said, with successful startups expected to begin the programme later in the year.

Royal Ibeh is a senior journalist with years of experience reporting on Nigeria’s technology and health sectors. She currently covers the Technology and Health beats for BusinessDay newspaper, where she writes in-depth stories on digital innovation, telecom infrastructure, healthcare systems, and public health policies.

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