Unlocking African Innovation: Google for Startups Accelerator Opens Applications for AI/ML Cohort 9
Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa has announced the opening of applications for its 9th cohort, specifically targeting AI and Machine Learning (ML) focused startups across the continent. This three-month hybrid program, set to commence in June 2025, aims to empower Seed to Series A stage startups by providing crucial resources, mentorship, and technical expertise to scale their impact.
Program Overview
The Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa is a free, equity-free program designed to support the growth of promising African startups. The 9th cohort will select 10 to 15 startups that are leveraging AI/ML technologies to address real-world challenges. The program combines virtual and in-person sessions, alongside focused sprint projects, to provide a comprehensive learning experience.
Key Benefits for Participating Startups
- Up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits.
- Expert support from Google industry specialists.
- Technical training and workshops focused on product design, customer acquisition, and leadership development.
- Invitations to major industry events.
- 30 days of free Cloud TPU access via the TPU Research Cloud program for open-source machine learning research.
Focus on AI/ML Integration
Google emphasizes the importance of founders integrating AI/ML technologies into their products, services, or business operations to ensure impactful support. Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa at Google, highlighted, "Startups are Africa’s problem solvers. With the right resources, they can scale their impact far beyond local communities. This program reflects our belief that AI can be transformative when shaped by those who understand the context deeply."
Success Stories from Cohort 8
The previous cohort (Cohort 8) in 2024 saw 10 successful startups selected, demonstrating the program’s impact:
- CDIAL AI (Nigeria): Transforming multi-lingual communication with AI.
- Earthbond (Nigeria): Providing affordable energy solutions with carbon accounting.
- Fixxr (South Africa): Offering transparent on-location vehicle maintenance.
- Lifesten Health (Rwanda): Innovating health and wellness through screening and incentive programs.
- MyAIFactchecker (Nigeria): Equipping users with an AI-powered tool to combat misinformation.
- Nakili (Kenya): Digitizing salons, barbershops, and spas.
- NextCounsel (Nigeria): Supercharging lawyer productivity with AI for contract management.
- Nobuk Africa (Kenya): Simplifying financial management for groups and collectives.
- Rana Energy (Nigeria): Delivering clean, reliable energy solutions through a data-driven ecosystem.
- Triply (Kenya): Building Africa’s travel operating system.
Application Details
Applications for Cohort 9 are open from April 10 to May 9, 2025. Interested startups can submit their applications online. Since its inception in 2018, the Google for Startups Accelerator: Africa program has supported 106 startups from 17 African countries, collectively raising over $263 million and creating significant impact.
