Fifteen South African AI-driven startups will each secure up to R1 million through Google’s latest accelerator programme.
Google opens applications for the 2026 Google for Startups Accelerator: South Africa, offering equity-free funding, mentorship, and access.[–>artificial intelligence ([–>AI) Provided technology to 15 local startups.
The three-month program is part of Google’s commitment to support 50 South African startups between 2024 and 2028, announced at Google Cloud Summit Johannesburg.
Applications are being accepted until August 28th, and the program will run from September 28th to December 4th.
Each selected startup will receive up to R1 million in non-equity funding, allowing founders to maintain ownership of the business while using the capital to expand, the statement said.
Participants will also receive technical support from Google engineers and AI specialists, as well as access to the company’s cloud infrastructure and AI models, including Gemini.
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The accelerator targets South African-led startups that are owned or managed by historically disadvantaged people and have functional AI-driven products designed to address local market needs.
“We are committed to the long-term growth of the South African tech ecosystem,” said Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Africa Startup Ecosystem at Google.
“Through programs built specifically for South Africans, we provide startups with the support, guidance and tools they need to grow. As these startups grow, we drive local economic development and contribute to a more inclusive and technology-enabled future for the continent.”
According to Google, during the hybrid program, founders work one-on-one with a mentor on product development.[–>data and operational challenges. The curriculum includes product roadmaps, growth strategies, and goal setting, and participants also have access to Google’s global accelerator network and more than 25 local alumni.
Google says the program aims to help African startups develop AI-based solutions for sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, logistics, and education.
“African start-ups are well-positioned to build products and services that address the continent’s most pressing challenges, from health and agriculture to logistics and education,” Aiyegbusi added.
“This program will help scale these solutions responsibly and comprehensively so African-led companies can compete and lead on the global stage.”
Google said it has supported more than 190 startups in 17 African countries since launching the Africa Accelerator in 2018. Collectively, these companies raised more than $400 million, created more than 3,500 jobs, and received $5 million in non-equity funding and Google product credits.
Applications for the 2026 Google for Startups Accelerator: South Africa close on August 28th.
