Program Details
The Google for Startups Accelerator: South Africa will kick off in September 2026 and run until December 2026.
- A global series of programs
Each cohort of 10-15 startups comes together to tackle technical challenges that can help grow their businesses through a mix of remote and in-person, 1-to-1, group learning sessions, and sprint projects.
Founders outline the top technical challenges for their startup, and are paired with experts from Google and the industry to solve those challenges and grow their business.
Accelerators include deep dives and workshops focused on product design, customer acquisition, and leadership development for founders.
Google Product Benefits
- Early access to AI products: Eligible participants receive Early Access Program and Trusted Tester benefits for Google’s AI products.
- Cloud credits: Startups interested in utilizing Cloud credits during the Accelerator may apply, subject to eligibility review and approval.
- Cloud TPUs: Participants are eligible to receive free Cloud TPU access to accelerate open source machine learning research.
Benefits
- Equity-free support: Equity-free support for the duration of the program.
- Mentoring: Dedicated mentoring from Google teams.
- Training: Exclusive invitations to technical bootcamps hosted by Google where offered.
- Access to experts: Access to Google’s network of industry experts.
- Early access to AI products: Access new Google AI products and tools as relevant through Trusted Tester and EAP benefits.
- Google product credits: Eligible startups receive product credits.
- Strategic support: Support on company and product strategy.
- Technical project partnership: Work hand in hand with experts from Google on your biggest tech challenges.
- Non-dilutive funding: Up to R1 million in non-dilutive (equity-free) funding for each participating startup.
Application Timeline
- July 21, 2026: Applications Open
- August 28, 2026: Applications Close
- September, 2026: Program Kick-off
- December, 2026: Graduation
- December, 2026: Demo Day
Application Deadline: August 28, 2026
Applications are now open for the A three-month hybrid accelerator program for growth-stage technology startups. The Accelerator is designed to bring the best of Google’s programs, products, people, and technology to South African-led startups looking to scale their impact.
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