Google for Startups is inviting applications from black founded startups in Africa. The initiative is designed to help African businesses build sustainable businesses by giving them access to funding and technical support.
Google for Startups Black Founders Fund is a program that provides equity-free cash to early-stage startups with Black founding members. It is also part of Alphabet’s larger $100 million commitment to invest in Black-led venture capital firms.
Google has invested over $88.5 million in African startups since it launched the Black Founders Fund in Africa in 2021. Last year, Google gave $3 million to 50 Black-founded startups in Africa. These startups range from logistics to fintech.
This year, the initiative launched a second cohort of Google for Startups Black Founders Fund in Africa. In addition to funding, the initiative includes mentorship support. A total of 60 startups will be chosen to receive $4 million in funding. To qualify, startups must be headquartered in Africa and have a legal presence in the country.
As of September 5, the program has raised $97 million. This includes funds from Google and Co-creation Hub.
The initiative will support 60 startups in Africa. Each startup will receive $100,000 in non-dilutive awards and access to mentorship. Selected startups will also participate in tailored workshops and community building sessions.
Interested startups must apply online before the application window closes. Applications are also accepted from the following countries: Nigeria, Rwanda, Cameroon, Botswana, South Africa, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates.
