This four-month initiative, now in its second year, targets startups working in sectors such as cybersecurity, transportation, education, and healthcare. 

Google is not offering equity-based investments here, instead, it’s providing hands-on mentorship, sales training, and access to its cloud tools, including some of its most advanced AI models. Most of the sessions will be virtual, but participants will later gather in person for a summit.

These companies had to meet tight selection criteria: evidence of market traction, at least six months of financial runway, and a product or service capable of making significant impact. Applications closed in mid-May following a highly competitive process.

Startups selected for this new cohort include:

1. Block Harbor, working on cybersecurity for automotive systems.
2. Attuned Intelligence, building AI-powered voice agents for call centres.
3. CloudRig, helping construction contractors manage production workflows with AI.
4. Mpathic, automating clinical trials and medical documentation.
5. StudyFetch, offering personalised learning tools to students and educators.
6. Omnia Fishing, which gives users personalised fishing advice based on data.
7. Making Space, matching disabled jobseekers with potential employers.
8. Tansy AI, helping users organise their medical records and appointments.
9. Waterplan, which lets companies track and respond to water-related risk.
10. Nimblemind.ai, making health data more usable and searchable.
11. Satlyt, a platform to process satellite data efficiently.
12. Tradeverifyd, which helps companies assess supply chain risk in global markets.
13. CircNova, using AI to understand RNA patterns for new therapeutics.
14. Otrafy, automating supply chain compliance and documentation.
15. Partsimony, helping companies build and manage their manufacturing supply chains.
16. Vetr Health, providing at-home veterinary care.
17. MedHaul, which connects hospitals with non-emergency transport options.

Among the programme’s earlier alumni is Cloverleaf AI, which secured a $2.8 million seed round after joining last year’s cohort. Another, Zordi, raised $20 million from Khlosa Ventures for its autonomous agtech solutions. These reveal Google’s reputation as an early identifier of high-impact startups in the AI space.

The Academy is just one of several efforts by the tech giant to shape the AI startup ecosystem. In May 2025, Google launched the AI Futures Fund, a rolling investment initiative supporting startups that are already building with DeepMind’s latest models—Gemini, Imagen, and Veo.

Startups funded under the Futures Fund receive equity investment, early access to the models, Google Cloud credits, and hands-on help from Google and DeepMind engineers. Some notable participants so far include:

• Toonsutra, a comic app that uses Gemini to translate webtoons across multiple languages.
• Viggle, an AI meme-generation platform powered by Gemini and Veo.
• Rooms, which allows users to create 3D spaces with interactive avatars.

This expansion into targeted funding aligns with Google’s broader AI education and inclusion strategy. At the UN Summit of the Future, CEO Sundar Pichai announced a $120 million Global AI Opportunity Fund aimed at reducing what he called the “AI divide”, the growing disparity in access to AI knowledge and tools across countries. 

He said: “We believe AI should benefit everyone, everywhere, not just those in high-income economies.”

The $120 million fund works with NGOs and local partners to bring AI education to underserved communities, especially in countries with poor digital infrastructure or lacking policy frameworks to support tech growth.

Meanwhile, Google.org, Google’s charitable arm, has launched a $20 million Generative AI Accelerator that supports nonprofits using AI for public good. This includes funding for projects in climate resilience, healthcare access, and digital education.

These developments come as AI remains both a disruptive force and a promising tool. While the headlines usually focus on the risks, from deepfakes to disinformation, Google appears to be betting that the next breakthroughs will come from startups willing to solve practical, overlooked problems.

With its blend of funding, mentorship, and infrastructure support, Google is building a growing network of startups, and we see the company wants a hand in shaping how AI evolves far beyond Silicon Valley.

Across the continent, startups are demonstrating how local innovation can solve deeply rooted problems. In West Africa, Crop2Cash – an agritech platform and alumni of the program – is using AI to digitally onboard smallholder farmers, build their financial identities, and provide them with access to credit, traceable payments, and productivity tools.

Through these efforts, Crop2Cash is improving agricultural outcomes and unlocking economic opportunity for farmers who have long been excluded from formal systems—illustrating the kind of impact that’s possible when African startups receive the support they need to scale.

The Accelerator is open to Seed to Series A startups based in Africa that are building AI-first solutions. Startups must have a live product, at least one founder of African descent, and a clear vision for responsible AI innovation. Selected participants will receive:

• Dedicated 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
• Workshops focused on technology, product strategy, people leadership, and AI implementation

AI’s potential to accelerate Africa’s development is real, and Google is investing in ensuring that African startups lead that charge. According to McKinsey, AI could add $1.3 trillion to Africa’s economy by 2030, but only if bold innovation is supported at the grassroots.

“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 2018, the program has supported 140 startups from 17 African countries. These alumni have raised more than $300 million in funding and created over 3,000 jobs. Many are now regional and global leaders in their categories.

How to Apply to 2025 Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program

Applications for the 2025 cohort are now open. Startups interested in participating can apply here.

For further information and updates, visit the Google Africa Blog or follow @GoogleAfrica on social media.

This year’s cohort features ten innovative startups from Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa, selected from nearly 1,000 applications, highlighting the remarkable talent and creativity in the African tech ecosystem.

Startups play a pivotal role in driving economic development and technological innovation in Africa. By addressing local challenges with tailored solutions, these startups are not only creating jobs but also enhancing the quality of life across the continent.

Despite the current “funding winter” in Sub-Saharan Africa, where investment flows have slowed, the resilience and ingenuity of African entrepreneurs continue to shine.

Since its inception in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program has supported 106 startups from 17 African countries.

These startups have collectively raised over $263 million and created more than 2,800 direct jobs, showcasing the program’s substantial impact on the African tech landscape. This year’s cohort places a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence, highlighting the growing importance of advanced technologies in addressing Africa’s most pressing challenges.

Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startups Programs for Google in Africa, said: “We are thrilled to welcome the 8th cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program. These startups represent the future of African innovation, harnessing the power of technology to solve real-world problems and uplift their communities. We are committed to supporting these founders by providing them with the resources and mentorship they need to succeed and scale their solutions.”

Meet the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa: Class 8:

• CDIAL AI (Nigeria): Transforming multilingual communication across Africa with the power of artificial and collective intelligence.
• Earthbond (Nigeria): Lighting up homes and businesses across Africa with affordable, reliable energy solutions, bolstered by carbon accounting and development finance.
• Fixxr (South Africa): Putting car owners and businesses in the driver’s seat with transparent and convenient on-location vehicle maintenance and repair services.
• Lifesten Health (Rwanda): Innovating health and wellness through cutting-edge screening and incentive-based programs focused on physical, mental, and nutritional health.
• MyAIFactchecker (Nigeria): Equipping users with an AI-powered tool to combat misinformation and promote informed decision-making through fact-checking.
• Nakili (Kenya): Bringing salons, barbershops, and spas into the digital age with a mobile-based app for streamlined management and enhanced customer experiences.
• NextCounsel (Nigeria): Supercharging lawyer productivity with an AI-powered tool for contract management, solicitor engagement, compliance, and more.
• Nobuk Africa (Kenya): Simplifying financial management for groups and collectives across Africa with a seamless platform for collecting funds, reconciling payments, and generating reports.
• Rana Energy (Nigeria): Providing clean, reliable energy solutions to SMEs and communities through a data-driven ecosystem.
• Triply (Kenya): Building Africa’s travel operating system, connecting travellers with seamless booking experiences and travel businesses with powerful management tools.

The Google for Startups Accelerator Africa Cohort 8 journey 

From July 29th to September 20th, 2024, these ten startups will participate in a structured program designed to support their growth.

They will receive direct access to the expertise of Google mentors and seasoned entrepreneurs who have navigated the startup path.

They will engage in technical workshops to refine their products, hone their business strategies, and strengthen their leadership skills.

The program will also prepare them to secure follow-on funding from Google’s global network of investors.

The participation of these startups in the accelerator program marks a significant step in their journey towards scaling their solutions and increasing their impact.

This is a 32-fold increase in the value of African tech and a 17-fold increase in Europe over the last decade.

But despite these gains, the last eighteen months have seen a significant reversal in venture capital (VC) investment, with European investment in business software companies decreasing by 59%, and a 40% overall decline in global tech investment from 2022 to 2023. 

Africa has experienced a similar trend, with a 40% decrease in VC investment during the same period.

This was revealed in the report by Google for Startups in partnership with Notion Capital. The report investigates the intersection of diversity, entrepreneurship, and investment in the European and African tech sector, focusing on the impact of Google for Startups’ Black Founders Fund. 

It reveals both progress made and ongoing challenges faced by Black founders in securing funding and resources.

Challenges Faced by Black Founders

Investment Disparities

Since 2000, Black-led tech businesses in Europe and Africa have received $2.5 billion in investments, which accounts for just 0.51% of the total investment in all tech startups. 

In Europe, Black founders received only 0.43% of all tech investment ($2.09 billion out of $482.5 billion), and in Africa, only 3.11% ($413 million out of $13.3 billion).

Decline in VC Investment

The peak of VC investment was seen in 2021, with global heights reaching $734 billion during the pandemic. However, this figure has since dropped to $317 billion in 2023, nearly half of the amount seen just two years earlier. 

This decline affects all founders, but underrepresented Black and ethnic founders are likely to feel the impact more acutely due to existing funding pressures and systemic biases.

Funding Gaps

There is a huge investment opportunity gap for Black founders. In Europe, if investment were proportional to the Black population, it would have reached $6.3 billion from 2000 to 2023, indicating a $4.21 billion shortfall. 

In the UK alone, Black-led tech businesses should have received $3.11 billion, but they have only garnered $1.38 billion, reflecting a $1.73 billion gap. 

In Africa, the investment opportunity gap is estimated to be nearly $10 billion, considering that around 80% of the continent’s population identifies as Black.

In Europe, women-led startups received only 1.1% of total venture capital funding in 2023 – average funding for women-led startups was €3 million, compared to €6 million for male-led startups.

The situation in Africa is similar, with women-led startups receiving less than 5% of total tech investment.

Despite these challenges, women-led startups have shown resilience and potential for growth. The growth rate for women-led startups in Africa was reported at 20% year-on-year, reiterating their ability to thrive even with limited resources.

Google for Startups’ Recommendations

Policy Advocacy

Google for Startups recommends collaborating with policymakers to advocate for policies that incentivise diversity in tech and address systemic barriers faced by Black founders in accessing capital.

Investor Education

Implementing educational programs for investors is necessary to raise awareness about biases and challenges faced by underrepresented founders. This will facilitate a more inclusive investment sector.

Community Building

Strengthening community-building efforts is essential to create a supportive industry where Black founders can connect, collaborate, and share experiences.

Data Collection and Transparency

Advocating for enhanced data collection on diversity metrics in the tech industry is important to promote transparency and informed decision-making.

Inclusive Investment Strategies

Google for Startups recommends inclusive investment strategies that specifically target women-led startups. In creating funds and initiatives focused on supporting women entrepreneurs, the tech industry can address the gender investment gap more effectively.

Mentorship and Networking

Providing mentorship and networking opportunities for women founders is necessary. Programs that connect women entrepreneurs with experienced mentors and industry leaders can help them navigate challenges, gain insights, and build valuable connections.

Highlighting Success Stories

Celebrating and highlighting the success stories of women-led startups can serve as inspiration and provide role models for aspiring women entrepreneurs. These stories can also ascertain the prospect and impact of investing in diverse leadership.

Training and Development

Offering training and development programs targeted at the needs of women founders can help them with the skills and knowledge required to secure funding, manage growth, and lead successful ventures.

Gender-Sensitive Policies

Advocating for gender-sensitive policies within the investment community and broader tech sector can help create a more supportive environment for women entrepreneurs. This includes policies that address unconscious biases and promote equal opportunities.

The challenges faced by Black founders in the tech industry are multifaceted, encompassing differences in investment, systemic biases, and funding gaps. Addressing these issues requires a collective effort from various stakeholders. 

The program is designed to support high-potential startups across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) that are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionise healthcare and medical research.

Among the selected startups are Nigeria’s Healthtracka, Kenya’s Thalia Psychotherapy and TibuHealth, and South Africa’s Zoie Health.

These companies exemplify the potential of AI to address pressing healthcare challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa, advancing mental health integration, providing accessible outpatient services, and delivering affordable healthcare to underserved populations.

According to the World Health Organization, more than 116 million  people across Africa were already estimated to be living with mental health conditions pre-pandemic and as things stand, there are fewer than two mental health workers for every 100 000 people.

Thalia Psychotherapy’s AI-powered chatbot provides initial assessments and therapy sessions, increasing access to mental health support in a region with a critical shortage of mental health professionals.

TibuHealth, on the other hand, delivers affordable outpatient services via “minute clinics” in partner pharmacies in high-density neighbourhoods.

Dorothy Ooko, head of Communications and Public Affairs, Google, Africa, said:

“We are committed to supporting the growth of innovative startups, particularly those that are leveraging AI to address critical healthcare challenges. The Growth Academy: AI for Health program is a testament to this commitment, and we are excited to see the impact these startups will have on the future of healthcare.”

The three-month program will provide participants with intensive training, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

Startups will benefit from workshops on best practices for AI, leadership development, responsible innovation, product design, and customer acquisition.

Additionally, Google experts from Research, Health, Verily, Fitbit, and DeepMind will offer one-on-one mentorship sessions and technical project support.

Below are the participating startups, representing 13 countries from across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and how they’re using AI models and technology to improve patient care and advance medical research:

• Aide (United Kingdom) is a digital service that helps patients and clinicians better understand and manage chronic disease, specifically comorbidity.
• AmplifAI (Saudi Arabia) combines AI driven thermography and computer vision to create a standardised and objective assessment for diabetic foot ulcers.
• Biorce (Portugal) is developing solutions to enhance clinical trials through the power of AI, having created Jarvis, a clinical AI assistant.
• C the Signs (United Kingdom) is an AI cancer prediction platform that helps identify patients at risk of cancer at its earliest and most curable stages.
• Callyope (France) develops speech-based remote patient monitoring solutions that help caretakers assess treatment efficacy and detect relapses in serious mental illnesses such as depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
• bio (Netherlands) works to reverse diabetes type 2 by precision nutrition, providing best in class digital therapeutic based on real-time glucometry.
• Ephion Health (Spain) develops digital biomarkers to ensure accurate disease monitoring and therapy assessment, through wearables data, clinical reports and AI for precise patient assessment.
• Exakt Health (Germany) is a certified medical app for physiotherapy and evidence-based training with hyper-personalised treatment plans.
• FiveLives (France) is a digital brain health platform for people aged 50+ to take control of their cognitive health, through combining clinically-validated brain health assessment and an engaging coaching program.
• Healthtracka (Nigeria) is decentralising access to healthcare in Africa through remote medical diagnostics, connecting users with a seamless way to access at-home lab tests, receive clear results and doctors consultations.
• HearMe (Poland) supports employees’ mental health through anonymous and secure 1:1 sessions with mental health professionals.
• Juniver (United Kingdom) delivers on-demand help for eating disorders, with AI-powered interventions for urges, evidence-based education, personalised tools, peer support and telemedicine.
• Mindgram (Poland) is a platform offering a holistic solution providing employees and their relatives with psychological and self-development support around the clock.
• Motherbeing (Egypt) is a digital solution dedicated to Arab women’s sexual and reproductive health. The platform connects users with doctors, experts, personalised health education and an AI-powered health assistant.
• Noah Labs (Germany) develops a voice-based machine learning software for the early detection of decompensated heart failure.
• Nui (Germany) is an app providing family caregivers with support through an intelligent chatbot that provides guidance to find answers to the most pressing questions.
• O7 Therapy (Egypt) bridges the treatment gap with cutting-edge tech and top-tier mental health professionals. The O7 Therapy app offers instant, anonymous support via encrypted Chat, Audio and Video Sessions.
• Powerful Medical (Slovakia) revolutionises cardiovascular diagnostics with its AI-driven platform, enabling healthcare professionals across the EU and beyond to diagnose and manage 39 cardiovascular conditions.
• Research Grid (United Kingdom) is an automation engine enabling faster, more successful clinical trials by engineering smart software that safely automates back office admin across the full lifecycle.
• Rofim (France) specialises in developing telemedicine software. The Rofim platform is a telemedicine platform designed to connect patients with healthcare professionals, enable diagnosis and improve access to care.
• SYCAI Medical (Spain) develops medical device software with the aim of preventing the appearance of cancer in the abdomen non-invasively.
• Thalia Psychotherapy (Kenya) is a mental health startup focused on integrating mental health services into primary healthcare systems.
• TibuHealth (Kenya) delivers affordable outpatient services via “minute clinics” in partner pharmacies in high-density neighbourhoods.
• Zoie Health (South Africa) is a digital health platform focused on providing underserved, high-need populations with affordable, accessible and healthcare.

–

In the bustling markets of Lagos, a remarkable transformation is underway. A local logistics company, once struggling with efficiency, has now streamlined its entire operation using AI-driven solutions.

This is a glimpse into the broader canvas of Africa where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming a cornerstone for business innovation.

Across the continent, from the tech hubs of Nairobi to the vibrant streets of Accra, AI is no longer a distant concept but a present-day tool reshaping the way businesses operate and grow.

Enterprises of all sizes are tapping into AI to enhance their processes, improve customer experiences, and unlock new growth potential.

Recently, Google brought together industry leaders from leading organisations such as MTN, FirstBank, and Kuda to explore the integration and impact of AI in African businesses.

The discussions brought into focus the immediate relevance of AI, emphasising that its value lies not just in preparing for future challenges but in providing practical solutions for the pressing needs of today’s market.

Fola Olatunji-David, representing Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Nigerian Minister of Communication, Innovation & Digital Economy, noted that “AI is not just a technological leap forward, but a catalyst for redefining how we approach business challenges and opportunities in Africa.”

As AI becomes more prevalent across Africa, it’s crucial to recognize that its adoption is more than just a technological upgrade.

It’s about rethinking how businesses operate, engage with customers, and improve their processes.

Key factors like managing costs, acquiring the right talent, and implementing effective strategies are central to this transition.

Successfully navigating these aspects of AI integration hinges on practical solutions and a collective commitment to embracing and adapting to this technological evolution.

In this transformative landscape, it’s the businesses who are at the forefront, with the support of collaborative partners.

Our initiatives, like the Google for Startups Accelerator AI First program, aim to empower businesses to effectively leverage AI technologies.

By working together, we can ensure that the adoption of AI across Africa’s business sector is impactful and responsible, driving progress and prosperity across the continent.

The transformative potential of AI in Africa is immense. It offers a pathway for businesses to enhance operational efficiency, drive innovation, and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global market.

The journey of integrating AI into African businesses is a testament to the region’s resilience, adaptability, and commitment to embracing new technologies for sustainable growth and development.

The narrative of AI in Africa is evolving, marked by instances of innovation and collaborative efforts. While there are diverse experiences across the continent, many businesses are finding ways to harness technology for their growth and success.

This journey with AI is contributing to various aspects of economic development, illustrating the potential and diverse applications of technology in different African contexts.

In the vibrant city of Lagos, a small yet ambitious logistics company is redefining its business landscape.

By integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their operations, they have not only improved efficiency but have also carved a new path for growth and innovation.

This is not just an isolated success story; it mirrors a larger narrative unfolding across Africa where AI is becoming a fundamental tool for business transformation.

Google Unleashes Generative AI to Search in Africa 

Across the continent, in bustling marketplaces and corporate boardrooms, AI is no longer perceived as a futuristic notion but as a present-day catalyst for change. Businesses, both large and small, are increasingly embracing AI to enhance processes, customer experiences, and scalability.

This adoption signifies a significant shift in how African businesses approach innovation and competitiveness in the global market.

A recent roundtable convened by Google brought together leaders from top organisations like MTN, FirstBank, and Kuda in Nigeria.

This gathering was more than just a meeting of minds; it was a testament to the growing recognition of AI’s role in reshaping African businesses.

One of the most poignant insights, shared by Fola Olatunji-David, representing the Nigerian Minister of Communication, Innovation & Digital Economy, encapsulates this sentiment perfectly: “AI is not just a technological leap forward but a catalyst for redefining how we approach business challenges and opportunities in Africa.”

However, the integration of AI into the African business sector is not without its challenges. It requires a reimagining of business models, customer engagement strategies, and operational efficiencies. Key hurdles such as cost, talent acquisition, and strategic implementation need to be addressed.

This journey towards AI integration calls for not just innovative solutions but also a unified vision and a steadfast commitment to driving technological change.

It is essential to acknowledge that businesses are at the forefront of this transformation. They are the primary drivers of innovation, with collaborative partners playing a supportive role in this journey.

Initiatives like Google’s Accelerator AI First program are designed to empower businesses to effectively leverage AI for sustainable growth and innovation.

This collaborative approach ensures that AI adoption across Africa’s business sector is both impactful and responsible, contributing to progress and prosperity.

The potential of AI in transforming Africa’s business landscape is immense. It provides a pathway for businesses to enhance operational efficiency, drive innovation, and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global market.

This transformative journey is a testament to the resilience, adaptability, and commitment of African businesses to embrace new technologies for sustainable growth and development.

As we look to the future, the focus is clear. AI’s role in Africa is not just about technological advancement; it’s about shaping a new economic narrative for the continent.

A narrative where technology acts as a catalyst for sustainable growth, innovation, and a brighter, more prosperous future for Africa.

The story of AI in Africa is one of collaborative innovation, transformation, and the promise of a technologically empowered continent.

It’s a narrative that showcases how technology can be harnessed not only to drive business success but also to contribute significantly to the economic prosperity of the continent.

As part of this collaboration, the two entities will award $3 million in Google Cloud credits to women founders in Nigeria.

This support will subsidise cloud technology-related costs for startups, allowing them to focus on innovation, customer acquisition, and growth.

The joint effort by UK-Nigeria Tech Hub and Google for Startups Africa will help promote digital inclusion and jointly support technology businesses run by women founders.

To commemorate International Women’s Day in March, the two organisations co-hosted an event in Lagos, today, bringing together women founders, investors, and ecosystem stakeholders.

The event aims to help women founders understand the technology funding landscape and position themselves to secure funding for their startups.

Justina Oha, Country Director, UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, said, “We are thrilled to announce our collaboration with Google for Startups, which comes at a time when the world is celebrating International Women’s Day. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to supporting women founders and helping them reach their full potential. Partnerships like this are one of the great ways that stakeholders can come together to advance Nigeria’s tech ecosystem at an accelerated pace.”

Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem Google Africa, speaking on the collaboration, said: “We are excited to partner with the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub to empower women entrepreneurs in Nigeria. This collaboration is a unique opportunity to provide women founders with the support and resources they need to scale their businesses and contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.

“At Google for Startups, we are committed to supporting startups and entrepreneurs around the world, and we believe that empowering women founders is key to building a more diverse and inclusive tech industry.”

UK-Nigeria Tech Hub

The UK- Nigeria Tech Hub is an initiative by the UK government’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sports (DCMS) to support the growth of the Technology ecosystem in Nigeria by promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth in the tech sector, leading to more trade and investment in the longer term. ​

The UK-Nigeria Tech Hub works to stimulate local digital economies, support inclusive and sustainable economic growth and jobs, build high-end digital skills, and forge innovation partnerships between Nigerian tech sectors and international businesses.

Eligibility

Startups operating and headquartered in Africa or having a legal presence on the continent are eligible to apply for the Black Founders Fund.

Other eligibility criteria for startups that wish to apply are that the business should be benefiting the black community or that early-stage startups have black founders or diverse founding teams.

The startups should be building for Africa and the global market, have the growth potential to raise more funding, create jobs and generally be making measurable impact.

Benefits

Upon selection, the startups will receive up to $150,000 equity-free cash awards and up to $200,000 per startup in Google Cloud credits, support in the form of training, and access to a network of mentors to assist in tackling the challenges unique to each startup. The applications for the third cohort will close on 26 March, 2023.

“Startups are a critical driver of innovation, economic growth and social progress especially in Africa and the support that the selected startups will receive will go a long way to unlock the potential and promote growth in the African tech ecosystem and the next generation of African tech entrepreneurs. We encourage all eligible startups to apply” says Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem, Google Sub Saharan Africa. 

Following the successful completion of two cohorts of the Black Founders Fund, the program has supported a total of 110 black-owned startups across Africa. 60 growth-stage startups were selected and supported through the program last year in Africa.

Africa has a growing population with 1 in 3 Africans estimated to be under 35 by 2050. The continent presents a huge opportunity for startups to provide innovative solutions for the growing market. It is also estimated that  by 2025, the African Internet economy will have the potential to add up to $180 billion to Africa’s GDP. 

By funding Black founders, Google is promoting job creation and wealth generation in the continent. The Black Founders Fund program for startups not only provides funding, but also hands-on support, connections and resources to help founders build solutions that are relevant for the African economy.

How to apply 

Applications for the 2023 Black Founders Fund for Startups are ongoing. Be a part of it.

“We are thrilled to join the 2023 cohort of Google for Startups Accelerator: Canada to explore the use of AI and ML to bring hyper-personalized global payments and commerce to everyone,” said Uchi Uchibeke, Founder and CEO of Chimoney, “we are looking forward to using this program to actualize our vision to connect anything to everything and anywhere to everywhere.”

Chimoney aims to provide a truly connected way to make value move between currencies, countries, asset types, and ledger types. The startup has connected to banks in 40 countries, thousands of unique gift card products globally, and mobile money and bill payments in 20 countries. Chimoney’s mission is to unlock economic opportunities for everyone, everywhere.

Earlier this year, Chimoney announced the launch of its FDIC-insured Bank account and account services feature to seamlessly enable its corporate clients to fund their Chimoney-enabled bulk payouts to community members, employees, contractors, and brand ambassadors around the globe. And the Google for Startups program is another step to scale Chimoney’s impact globally.

The Google for Startups Accelerator supports the best and brightest Canadian startups across different sectors while leveraging AI and ML to solve complex problems and tackle the toughest challenges in their industry.

Over the next three months, Chimoney will receive mentorship and technical project support from Google, deep dives, and workshops focused on areas like product design, customer acquisition, and leadership development.

They will have access to Google experts and technology to help enhance their strategy and navigate their most pressing technical and business needs.

Google for Startups Accelerator Canada is a 10-week accelerator program for Seed to Series A Canadian technology startups. The programming for Google for Startups Accelerator Canada cohort launches in March 2023.

The program aims to empower and support women founders on the continent by providing resources and opportunities for them to scale their startups and address African problems.

Women founders who are building tech startups in Africa or for Africa can apply through the program website before the February 20th, 2023 deadline.

ALSO READ: How Google is Delivering on its $1billion Commitment in Africa

Eligible applicants must have a working product or service, a viable business model, and a working team. The application process includes a written application and an interview with the program team.

The 12-week program will commence in March 2023 and include one bootcamp per month, held in a hybrid style of online and in-person sessions.

Selected participants will receive access to Google’s products, mentoring from industry experts, resources, tools, and technology, as well as networking opportunities and connections with investors to support the growth of their startups.

“We are excited about the open call for applications for our 3-month accelerator program, specifically tailored to address the unique challenges faced by women founders in Africa. We believe that investing in women founders in Africa is critical for economic empowerment that will enable the creation of jobs for the growing African youth population,” says Folarin Aiyegbusi, head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa at Google.

African female founders face challenges in their entrepreneurial pursuits, including limited access to funding. Despite these challenges, women make up a significant portion of African entrepreneurs, with 58% of businesses in Africa being owned by women.

“Elevating the participation and leadership of women in the entrepreneurship ecosystem is crucial for promoting gender equality and driving economic growth in Africa. Investing in women-led startups is a key step towards achieving this goal, and Google’s commitment to these goals is reflected in the launch of the Google for Startups Accelerator: Women Founders Africa Program.” added Aiyegbusi.

The Women Founders will be mentored by industry experts who will provide guidance and support to the selected participants throughout the program. They will be instrumental in helping the startups achieve their full potential and create a positive impact on their communities.

Akua Nyame-Mensah, a mentor for the program said, “It’s an honor to be a mentor in the inaugural Google for Startups Accelerator Program for Women Founders. As part of supporting the next generation of leaders in Africa, this program offers women an opportunity to grow their networks and the accountability to achieve their professional goals. The focus on mentorship will be invaluable. Participants will benefit and grow from the exchange of ideas and experiences.”

The Google for Startups Accelerator Women Founders Africa Program is an extension of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program established in 2017, reflecting Google’s dedication to supporting startups and addressing the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Africa.