Global tech leader Google has opened applications for the 2025 edition of its Startups Accelerator Africa, a program designed to empower African startups developing innovative solutions using artificial intelligence (AI). Now in its seventh year, the initiative targets early-stage companies with strong AI-driven products and a mission to solve critical challenges across the continent.
The three-month accelerator is open to startups from seed to Series A stages. To be eligible, companies must have at least one founder of African origin, an existing product in the market, and a clear commitment to ethical and responsible use of AI technologies.
What Selected Startups Will Gain
Startups chosen for the 2025 cohort will receive a wide array of benefits tailored to help them grow and scale, including:
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Expert Mentorship: One-on-one guidance from engineers at Google and industry experts
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Cloud Infrastructure Support: Up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits
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Global Networking Access: Direct connections to investors, business partners, and technology leaders
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Specialized Training: Deep dives into product design, technical architecture, team management, and AI adoption strategies
Google says the program is not only about access to resources but also about building lasting connections within a global innovation ecosystem that is aligned with Africa’s growth.
Why Google Is Focused on AI Development in Africa
Google explained that it views AI as a powerful driver for development in Africa. It believes that the most effective AI solutions come from individuals and teams that understand the unique challenges faced by local communities.
Folarin Aiyegbusi, who leads Google’s startup efforts in Africa, noted that innovation on the continent is being spearheaded by tech entrepreneurs who are deeply rooted in their communities. He emphasized that AI has the potential to create lasting social and economic change when developed by people who live and work within the context of the problems they aim to solve.
Citing a McKinsey study, Google pointed out that AI could contribute an estimated $1.3 trillion to Africa’s GDP by 2030—provided that early-stage innovators receive adequate support to scale their impact.
Program’s Track Record of Success
Since its inception in 2018, the accelerator has helped 140 startups from 17 African countries grow their businesses. These companies have collectively raised over $300 million in funding and generated more than 3,000 jobs. Many graduates have expanded beyond national borders and now operate at a regional or global level.
One such success story is Crop2Cash, a Nigerian agritech firm and past participant in the accelerator. The startup uses AI to help smallholder farmers establish digital identities, gain access to financing, and receive secure digital payments. These tools have enabled thousands of farmers to integrate into formal economic systems and improve their yields.
Google highlighted the impact of Crop2Cash as a demonstration of how African-led AI innovation can create inclusive economic progress.
Nigeria’s Strong Showing in 2024
In last year’s edition of the program, startups from Nigeria accounted for half of all selected participants. The 2024 class featured 10 companies from Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa—each using AI to address key issues in sectors such as financial services, environmental management, public health, and digital infrastructure.
The high number of Nigerian participants reflects the country’s strong presence in the continent’s tech scene, as well as the growing influence of AI-powered solutions in local innovation ecosystems.
How to Apply for the 2025 Cohort
African startups interested in joining the 2025 cohort can submit their applications via Google’s startup platform:
🔗 https://startup.google.com/programs/accelerator/africa
Google is encouraging applications from companies that are not only building scalable technologies but also demonstrating a clear understanding of how AI can be used ethically to drive social impact.
Looking Ahead
With AI poised to revolutionize industries across the world, Google’s accelerator offers African entrepreneurs the opportunity to lead from the front. By investing in local founders and AI-powered ideas, the company aims to fuel a new wave of innovation that’s both globally competitive and grounded in local realities.
The 2025 Accelerator Africa program represents not just an investment in startups, but a broader commitment to ensuring that African voices help shape the future of artificial intelligence on the global stage.
