Google is accepting applications for the Google Africa Applied AI Lab, a new initiative designed to help Africa’s most promising AI founders and researchers turn cutting-edge artificial intelligence research into commercially viable products.
Based at the Accra AI Community Centre (AICC) in Ghana, the programme provides direct technical collaboration with Google experts, early access to Google’s latest AI models, mentorship from leading venture capital firms, and opportunities for follow-on funding. It is designed for startups and researchers building AI solutions that tackle uniquely African challenges.
About the Programme
The Google Africa Applied AI Lab is a zero-to-one commercialisation programme that bridges the gap between AI research and real-world products.
Rather than offering traditional accelerator training, the programme pairs selected founders and researchers with Google teams to co-develop AI-powered products capable of solving pressing challenges across Africa.
The programme focuses on five major themes expected to shape Africa’s digital future:
- Future of Work
- Future of Knowledge
- Software Development
- Creativity
- Entertainment
The programme concludes with an in-person Demo Day in Accra, where participants will present their products to Google leaders, investors, and ecosystem partners.
What Selected Participants Receive
Participants will benefit from:
- Early access to Google DeepMind AI models, including Gemini, Gemma, and Veo before public release
- Hands-on technical mentorship from Google Research and global Google teams
- Product development and go-to-market support
- Access to leading African venture capital firms including 4DX Ventures, Norrsken22, Novastar Ventures, and Ventures Platform
- Opportunity to receive investment from the Google AI Futures Fund and participating VC partners
- Exposure to investors and strategic partners during the Demo Day
Participation in the programme does not require founders to give up equity.
Who Can Apply
Google is looking for:
- Full-time startup founders
- AI researchers interested in becoming founders
- Teams building AI-powered products with potential impact across Africa
Preference will be given to startups with existing commercial traction (Pre-Seed to Series A), although promising founders and researchers with strong ideas are also encouraged to apply.
Applicants should be building solutions aligned with one or more of the programme’s focus areas, including work, education, software, creativity, or entertainment.
Participant Commitment
Successful applicants are expected to:
- Integrate Google AI technologies into their products
- Participate in the customised programme activities
- Attend the in-person Demo Day at the Accra AI Community Centre in early December 2026
