Google Opens Applications for $350m-Backed AI Accelerator Cohort 10
Africa’s startup ecosystem is set for another lift as applications open for the 10th cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa, a 12-week hybrid programme focused on Series A companies building AI-driven solutions for the continent. Applications will run until March 18, 2026.
Since its launch in 2018, the accelerator has supported more than 180 startups across 17 African countries. Collectively, these ventures have raised over $350 million in funding and created more than 3,700 direct jobs, underscoring the programme’s role in attracting investor capital and strengthening Africa’s innovation economy.
Google disclosed that selected startups will gain access to advanced AI expertise, technical resources, and mentorship from seasoned professionals, alongside networking opportunities with peers and global industry leaders. The programme is designed to help participants scale responsibly, strengthen products, and translate cutting-edge research into real-world solutions.
Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem Africa at Google, said the continent is experiencing a “vibrant shift toward deep tech innovation.” He noted that Class 10 will focus on AI’s potential to drive health and societal benefits, positioning African startups as “research labs of the continent.”
Last year’s cohort featured 15 AI-driven ventures from Ghana, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, and South Africa. Six Nigerian startups were selected, including E-doc Online, GoNomad, Midddleman, Myltura, Pastel, and Scandium, ventures tackling challenges from cross-border payments to healthcare access and software quality assurance. Their participation highlighted Nigeria’s growing dominance in Africa’s innovation space.
With AI now at the centre of global investment flows, analysts say the accelerator’s track record of mobilising hundreds of millions of dollars in funding makes it a critical pipeline for investors seeking exposure to Africa’s fast-growing tech sector.
The focus on healthcare, climate, agriculture, and financial services reflects areas where AI adoption could deliver both commercial returns and broad societal impact.
For investors, the opening of Cohort 10 signals fresh opportunities to back Africa’s next wave of high-growth startups, with Google’s infrastructure and mentorship providing a de-risked platform for scaling innovation across the continent.
