Google launches first dedicated ‘Startups Accelerator’ for female founders in Africa

Google has announced that applications for the inaugural Google for Startups Accelerator: Women Founders Africa Program are now open. The program aims to empower and support female founders on the continent by providing them with resources and opportunities to scale their startups and address African issues.

Female founders building tech startups in Africa or for Africa can apply before the February 20, 2023 deadline through the program website at g.co/acceleratorafrica. Eligible applicants must have a working product or service, a viable business model and a working team. The application process includes a written application and an interview with the program team.

The 12-week program will begin in March 2023 and will include one boot camp per month, held in a hybrid style of online and in-person sessions. Select participants will have access to Google’s products, industry expert guidance, resources, tools and technology, as well as networking opportunities and investor connections to support the growth of their startups.

“We are excited about the open call for applications for our three-month accelerator program, which is specifically tailored to address the unique challenges faced by female founders in Africa. We believe investing in female founders in Africa is critical to economic empowerment, creating jobs for the growing African youth population,” said Folarin Aiyegbusi, head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa at Google.

African female founders face challenges in their entrepreneurial pursuits, including limited access to finance. Despite these challenges, women make up a significant proportion of African entrepreneurs: 58 percent of businesses in Africa are owned by women.

“Increasing women’s participation and leadership in the entrepreneurial ecosystem is crucial to promoting gender equality and driving economic growth in Africa. Investing in women-led startups is an important step towards achieving this goal, and Google’s commitment to these goals is reflected in the launch of the Google for Startups Accelerator: Women Founders Africa Program, Aiyegbusi added.

The Women Founders are mentored by industry experts who guide and support selected participants throughout the program. They will play an important role in helping the startups reach their full potential and create a positive impact in their communities.

Akua Nyame-Mensah, a mentor for the program, said, “It is an honor to be a mentor in the inaugural Google for Startups Accelerator Program for Women Founders. As part of supporting the next generation of leaders in Africa, this program offers women the opportunity to grow their networks and the responsibility to achieve their professional goals. The focus on mentorship will be invaluable. Participants will benefit from and grow through the exchange of ideas and experiences.”

The Google for Startups Accelerator Women Founders Africa program is an extension of the Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program established in 2017 and reflects Google’s commitment to supporting startups and addressing the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Africa. faced.