Apply for Google for Startups Accelerator Program for Women Tech Founders

The first-ever Google for Startups Accelerator: Women Founders Africa Program is now accepting applications.

The program’s goal is to empower female entrepreneurs on the continent by giving them the tools and chances they need to scale their tech businesses and solve problems in Africa.

Beginning in March 2023, the 12-week program will comprise one boot camp per month that is held in a hybrid setting of online and in-person sessions. The growth of their firms will be aided by the access that selected participants will have to Google’s products, mentoring from business leaders, resources, tools, and technology, as well as networking opportunities and contacts with investors.

Applications for the program are accepted until February 20, 2023. Candidates who meet the requirements must have a functional product or service, a workable business plan, and a functional team. A written application and an interview with the program team are both required steps in the application process.

“We are thrilled to announce the opening of the application period for our three-month accelerator program, which has been especially designed to address the particular obstacles encountered by female founders in Africa. According to Folarin Aiyegbusi, head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa at Google, “We think that investing in women founders in Africa is vital for economic empowerment that will enable the creation of jobs for the expanding African young population.”

African female innovators confront obstacles in their business endeavors, such as restricted finance options. Despite these obstacles, 58% of firms in Africa are held by women, who represent a sizeable share of the continent’s entrepreneurs. For the purpose of advancing gender equality and spurring economic development in Africa, it is essential to increase the leadership and participation of women in the entrepreneurship ecosystem. Aiyegbusi continued, “Google’s dedication to these aims is shown in the establishment of the Google for Firms Accelerator: Women Founders Africa Program. Investing in women-led startups is a crucial step towards reaching this goal.

Industry leaders who are mentors for The Women Founders will offer advice and support to the chosen participants throughout the program. They will be instrumental in helping startups achieve their full potential and create a positive impact on their communities.

“It’s an honor to be a mentor in the inaugural Google for Startups Accelerator Program for Women Founders,” said Akua Nyame-Mensah, one of the program’s mentors. This initiative provides women with a chance to expand their networks and the accountability to meet their professional objectives as part of its support for Africa’s future generation of leaders. The emphasis on mentoring will be very beneficial. The sharing of knowledge and experiences will benefit all participants and help them develop.

A continuation of the Google for Companies Accelerator Africa program launched in 2017, the Google for Startups Accelerator Women Founders Africa Program demonstrates Google’s commitment to assisting startups and tackling the particular difficulties encountered by female entrepreneurs in Africa.