Google Opens 2025 Accelerator Applications for African AI Startups

Google has announced the call for applications for its 2025 Google for Startups Accelerator Africa programme, a three-month initiative aimed at empowering early-stage startups that are leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to solve Africa’s most critical challenges.

According to Mr. Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startups Ecosystem, Africa at Google, startups across the continent are proving how local innovation can drive solutions to long-standing problems. He emphasized AI’s potential as a catalyst for Africa’s development, highlighting Google’s commitment to ensuring African startups are at the forefront of that transformation.

He referenced a McKinsey report suggesting that AI could contribute up to $1.3 trillion to Africa’s economy by 2030, provided that innovation is nurtured at the grassroots.

“Startups are Africa’s problem solvers, with the right resources, they can scale their impact far beyond local communities. This programme reflects our belief that AI can be transformative when shaped by those who understand the context deeply,’’ he said.

Aiyegbusi cited the success of Crop2Cash, a West African agritech startup and programme alumnus, which uses AI to digitally onboard smallholder farmers. The platform supports farmers in building financial identities and gaining access to credit, traceable payments, and productivity tools—ultimately improving agricultural outcomes and expanding economic opportunities.

The programme is open to Seed to Series A startups based in Africa that are building AI-first solutions. Eligible startups must have a live product, at least one founder of African descent, and a commitment to responsible AI development.

Selected startups will receive technical mentorship from Google and industry experts, up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits, and access to a global network of investors, partners, and collaborators. The curriculum also includes workshops on product strategy, leadership, technology, and AI implementation.

Since its inception in 2018, the accelerator has supported 140 startups across 17 African countries. These alumni have collectively raised over $300 million in funding and created more than 3,000 jobs, with many now operating as leaders in their respective sectors.

Click here to apply for the 2025 cohort.