Google has opened applications for the next cohort of its Google for Startups Growth Academy: AI for GovTech programme.
This three-month initiative is designed for Seed to Series A startups based in Africa, Europe, or the Middle East (EMEA) that are using artificial intelligence to develop solutions that support governments and improve communities.
Target sectors include agriculture, cybersecurity, education, energy, housing, transportation, and manufacturing.
The programme will include a mix of virtual and in-person engagements, featuring workshops, mentoring sessions, and networking events. While most of the sessions will be held online, the kickoff and graduation events will take place physically, with locations to be announced in the coming months.
Programme Benefits
Participants will receive support to help them:
-
Develop data-driven strategies for customer and partnership growth.
-
Innovate responsibly with emerging technologies.
-
Expand into new markets.
Additional benefits include:
-
Three months of equity-free support.
-
Tailored product and leadership guidance.
-
One-on-one mentorship from Google experts and industry leaders.
-
Practical product tips from the Googlers who built them.
-
Membership in the Google for Startups global alumni network, which spans founders in over 135 countries.
-
Insights and best practices for global expansion.
-
Peer support from fellow founders across the EMEA region.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, startups must:
-
Be Seed to Series A stage, based in Africa, Europe, or the Middle East, and seeking international growth.
-
Use AI to drive innovation in government technology areas such as digital public services, smart cities, digital infrastructure, public health, education, energy, climate response, safety, and security.
-
Show demonstrated traction—this may include funding, a growing user base, or revenue.
-
Offer a scalable product or service with a large total addressable market and a viable growth model.
How to Apply
Interested startups should apply through the official portal before June 30, 2025
Google is accepting applications for its "Google for Startups Growth Academy: AI for GovTech" program, aimed at Seed to Series A startups based in Africa, Europe, or the Middle East. The three-month initiative supports startups using artificial intelligence to create solutions that aid governments and enhance communities. Targeted sectors include agriculture, cybersecurity, education, energy, housing, transportation, and manufacturing.
Participants will experience a blend of virtual and in-person activities, such as workshops, mentoring, and networking events, with kickoff and graduation held on-site at locations to be announced. Benefits include developing data-driven growth strategies, responsible tech innovation, market expansion, and three months of equity-free support. Additional perks include tailored guidance, one-on-one mentorship, practical product tips, global alumni network membership, and insights for global scaling.
Startups must be at Seed to Series A stages, based in the EMEA region, leveraging AI in government tech areas like public services, smart cities, and digital infrastructure. They should demonstrate traction through funding or a growing user base, and offer scalable products with viable growth plans. Applications close on June 30, 2025, via the official program portal.
