Google has announced the opening of applications for the 2025 Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program. This three-month initiative aims to support early-stage startups using artificial intelligence (AI) to tackle Africa’s most pressing challenges.
Startups across the continent are showcasing how local innovation can address deep-rooted problems. For example, in West Africa, Crop2Cash – an agritech platform and alumni of the program – uses AI to digitally onboard smallholder farmers, helping them build financial identities and gain access to credit, traceable payments, and productivity tools. This initiative has improved agricultural outcomes and unlocked economic opportunities for farmers who have long been excluded from formal systems.
The Accelerator is open to Seed to Series A startups based in Africa that are focused on AI-first solutions. Applicants must have a live product, at least one founder of African descent, and a clear vision for responsible AI innovation.
Selected participants will receive technical mentorship from Google and industry experts, up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits, access to a global network of investors, partners, and collaborators, and workshops on technology, product strategy, people leadership, and AI implementation.
Google sees AI as a powerful tool to drive Africa’s development. According to McKinsey, AI could add $1.3 trillion to Africa’s economy by 2030, provided bold innovation is nurtured from the grassroots level.
“Startups are Africa’s problem solvers. With the right resources, they can scale their impact far beyond local communities,” said Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa at Google. “This program reflects our belief that AI can be transformative when shaped by those who understand the context deeply.”
Since its inception in 2018, the program has supported 140 startups from 17 African countries. These startups have raised over $300 million in funding and created more than 3,000 jobs, with many now leading their respective industries.
Applications for the 2025 cohort are now open here
