Applications now open for Google for Startups Accelerator Africa 2025

Google has announced that applications are open for the 2025 class of the Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa, a three-month hybrid program for technology startups across the continent. The accelerator, focused on seed-to-Series A businesses, provides mentorship, product support, and access to Google’s global network.

The call for applications, closing on 10 September, is reserved for South African-based founders only, although the programme is designed for startups across Africa. This follows Google’s continued expansion of initiatives targeting African businesses in need of capital, technology, and market access.

Google for Startups programme details

The Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa runs for three months in a hybrid format, combining digital training with in-person sessions. Participating startups will engage in hands-on product development, technical support, and leadership workshops.

Key components of the accelerator include:

• Mentorship: Direct access to Google’s network of industry experts, product managers, and engineers.
• Technology Support: Training in Google Cloud, machine learning, and AI.
• Cloud Credits: Selected startups will receive Google Cloud credits to reduce infrastructure costs.
• Global Network Access: Exposure to Google’s alumni community with knowledge-sharing opportunities.

The initiative focuses on startups that use technology to address fundamental issues in their industries and societies with a focus on solutions that can scale into various markets, Google explains.

Relevance to African Startups

The Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa has supported startups in fintech, healthtech, agritech, logistics, and education technology. It is part of wider efforts by the multinational technology company to strengthen Africa’s startup ecosystem.

African startups face persistent challenges, including high operational costs, limited access to venture capital, and shortages in advanced technical capacity. Programmes such as the Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa create structured pathways for founders to strengthen products, streamline operations, and test scalable business models. By linking local innovation with international expertise, these initiatives help startups prepare for regional and global markets.

In South Africa, where enterprise and fintech startups are expanding, the accelerator attracts businesses preparing to grow regionally and globally. Participation in previous cohorts has also given startups greater visibility among investors, which has supported fundraising efforts.

At a continental level, the programme contributes to the development of Africa’s digital economy. Data from venture capital trackers and the African Development Bank shows that funding for African startups has fallen considerably compared to peaks in 2021 and 2022, though investor interest in scalable technology companies remains. The accelerator provides an additional platform for startups to access technical resources and partnerships in this environment.

Aside from individual entrepreneurs, such businesses also assist the overall digital economy of Africa through employment creation, international tech collaboration, and positioning the continent as an innovative hub that can scale. By funding those startups that innovatively address issues like financial access, health access, food security, and climate resilience, the programme aids Africa’s prospects for growth and position in the international innovation world.

How to Apply

Application for the Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa 2025 is open until 10 September 2025. Early-stage and Series A startups across Africa are eligible.

Founders can apply via the official application page. The process requires company details, a description of the problem being solved, team information, and evidence of traction or market validation. Shortlisted startups will be contacted ahead of the programme start.

The Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa supports individual founders while contributing to the continent’s broader digital economy through job creation, skills development, and cross-border collaboration.

The programme enhances Africa’s role in the global technology landscape by preparing startups to scale across regions. Sectors such as financial inclusion, healthcare delivery, food production, and climate adaptation are among the areas expected to gain, creating long-term pathways for economic growth and integration into international technology markets.