Applications open for Google for Startups Accelerator: South Africa
Applications are open for the Google for Startups Accelerator: South Africa, a three-month programme designed to support 15 growth-stage, AI-driven South African startups with equity-free funding, technical mentorship and access to Google’s advanced AI technologies.
The programme forms part of Google’s plan to support 50 South African startups between 2024 and 2028. Each selected startup will receive up to ZAR1 million (US$60,000) in equity-free funding, allowing founders to retain full ownership of their business while using the capital to accelerate growth.
They will also gain direct access to Google’s AI tools, cloud infrastructure and models, including hands-on access to Gemini, helping them strengthen their products and enhance their technical capabilities.
The programme targets South African-led, historically disadvantaged person (HDP)-owned or controlled startups that are building functional, AI-driven products for local market needs. Over the course of the hybrid programme, which runs from September 28 to December 4, founders will be paired one-to-one with mentors and AI specialists to work through product, data and operational challenges.
The curriculum covers product roadmapping, growth strategy and goal-setting, and connects founders to a network of more than 25 local alumni and Google’s global Accelerator community.
“We are committed to the long-term growth of South Africa’s tech ecosystem. Through programmes built specifically for South Africans, we give startups the support, mentorship and tools they need to thrive. As these startups grow, they drive local economic development and contribute to a more inclusive, technology-enabled future for the continent,” said Folarin Aiyegbusi, head of startup ecosystem for Africa at Google.
“African startups are well placed to build products and services that address the continent’s most pressing challenges, from health and agriculture to logistics and education. This programme helps those solutions scale, responsibly and inclusively, so African-led companies can compete and lead on the global stage.”
Applications are open here until August 28.
