Google has officially opened applications for the 10th cohort of its Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program, marking nearly a decade of the tech giant’s involvement in the continent’s tech scene. This edition follows a series of successful cohorts that have helped shape the African startup landscape since the program’s launch in 2018.
While previous years focused on broad digital transformation, the 2026 cohort, dubbed the “AI First program,” signals a shift toward deep-tech innovation.
The 12-week hybrid program is specifically tailored for Series A startups that are either based in Africa or developing Africa-centric solutions using artificial intelligence and machine learning.
“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,” Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa, says.
Selected startups will receive equity-free support, a hallmark of the Google program that allows founders to scale without diluting their ownership. Other benefits include access to Google’s AI experts and specialised workshops, Google Cloud credits to power their infrastructure, one-on-one mentorship sessions with seasoned AI professionals, and networking opportunities with a global pool of investors.
First launched in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa has become one of the continent’s most visible corporate accelerator programs. Over the past nine years, it has supported more than 180 startups from 17 African countries, helping them scale products, raise capital, and create jobs.
The program alumni have also collectively raised over $350 million in funding and generated more than 3,700 direct jobs across the region. Notable alumni include logistics giant Paps and healthtech innovators such as Myltura and YeneHealth.
This edition comes at a time when artificial intelligence is a major engine for future economic growth in Africa. By centring this cohort on AI, Google aims to equip startups with the tools, expertise, and infrastructure needed to develop scalable solutions across healthcare, financial services, and societal development.
Applications are open from February 5 until March 18, 2026. Eligible startups can apply online at g.co/acceleratorafrica. The program is expected to kick off in April 2026, continuing Google’s broader $1 billion commitment to accelerate Africa’s digital transformation.
Victoria Fakiya – Senior Writer
Techpoint Digest
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