Google has opened applications for the 2025 Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program, a three-month initiative designed to support early-stage startups using artificial intelligence to address Africa’s most pressing challenges.
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:
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Dedicated technical mentorship from Google and industry experts
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Up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits
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Access to a global network of investors, partners, and collaborators
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Workshops focused on technology, product strategy, people leadership, and AI implementation
Google’s Commitment to Driving AI Innovation and Economic Growth in Africa
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.
Applications for the 2025 cohort are now open. Startups interested in participating can apply at: https://startup.google.com/
For further information and updates, startups interested in participating are advised to visit the Google Africa Blog or follow @GoogleAfrica on social media.
As Google opens applications for the 2025 Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program, it’s time to harness the power of AI for good. If you’re an African startup focused on using artificial intelligence to solve local challenges, don’t miss this incredible opportunity to scale your impact. For more details on how AI is transforming Africa’s future and how you can be part of this movement, visit LouisaOlaniyi.com.ng for the latest updates and insights.
