Google Africa Applied AI Lab supports African founders, researchers, and entrepreneurs building next-generation AI products for real-world challenges across the continent.

Based at the Accra AI Community Centre in Ghana, the program pairs selected teams with Google experts for technical support, early access to Google AI models, and help turning AI research and prototypes into market-ready products.

What selected teams receive

• Early access to Google DeepMind models including Gemini, Gemma, and Veo for commercial use-case exploration.
• Hands-on technical mentorship and go-to-market support from Google Research, other Google teams, and venture partners including 4DX Ventures, Norrsken22, Novastar Ventures, and Ventures Platform.
• Potential funding and further support from Google AI Futures Fund and participating VC partners.
• An opportunity to present at a demo day for Googlers, investors, and partners at the Accra AI Community Centre.

Who should apply

The lab is for current full-time founders and top researchers who want to become startup founders. Google is seeking applicants with big ideas that drive impact in Africa across the future of work, knowledge, software development, creativity, and entertainment. Preference is given to startups with funding and commercial traction from pre-seed to Series A, but founders and researchers with strong ideas and plans are also eligible.

Timeline and commitments

• Applications opened July 1, 2026 and close August 31, 2026.
• The initial co-development period runs from mid-September to early December 2026.
• Selected teams should commit to an in-person product demo day in early December at the Accra AI Community Centre in Ghana.
• Teams are not required to give up equity or ownership simply by participating.