South African AI startups have three weeks left to apply for Google’s latest local accelerator programme, which offers funding without taking an ownership stake in the businesses. Applications for the 2026 Google for Startups Accelerator: South Africa close on 28 August. Participants will also join a network of more than 25 local accelerator alumni and Google’s wider international startup community. “African startups are well placed to build products and services that address the continent’s most pressing challenges,” said Aiyegbusi. Applications for the South African programme are open through the Google for Startups website until 28 August 2026.