Google has announced an exciting opportunity for Black-led South African startups to apply for the 2025 cohort of its accelerator program. The program is designed to support Seed to Series A tech startups that are building innovative solutions for Africa. The three-month hybrid accelerator offers a range of benefits to selected startups.
These include up to $350,000 in cloud credits, personalized guidance from experts and industry leaders, in-depth training on product development and business strategy, access to a global network of investors and partners, and a supportive community of fellow founders. To be eligible, startups must be Black-led technology companies based in South Africa. They should demonstrate traction, ideally between the Seed and Series A stage, and build scalable products or services with a significant total addressable market and defensible growth model.
Startups should also be deeply technical, preferably leveraging technologies like machine learning and AI. Applications for the program opened on September 27, 2024, and will close on October 14, 2024.
Google accelerator for SA startups
The program is set to kick off in November 2024, with graduation and demo day events taking place in January 2025. Folarin Aiyegbusi, head of startup ecosystems at Google Sub-Saharan Africa, emphasized the importance of supporting startups in Africa. “Startups in Africa are critical drivers of innovation, economic growth, and social progress.
By investing in South African Black-owned startups, we are driving systemic change and promoting job creation and wealth generation for the future,” he said. The accelerator program is part of Google’s commitment to support diverse and inclusive startup ecosystems. Applications are encouraged from qualified startups regardless of background.
Interested startups can find more information and apply on the official accelerator program website. The program presents a unique opportunity for Black-led South African startups to gain valuable support and resources to grow their businesses and make a significant impact in Africa and beyond.
- OpportunitiesForAfricans.”Google for Startups Accelerator Africa Program 2025 for Black-led South African startups.”.
- BizCommunity.”Google invites Black SA founders to apply for startup funding”.
- hTXT.”Google opens applications for Black Founders Startups Accelerator”.