Cloud AI

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North America - Hybrid
Ten weeks
Pre-Seed to Series A

Started by you. Accelerated with Google.

A new ten-week accelerator class for high potential AI first technology startups based in the U.S. and Canada.

A woman is delivering a presentation with a smile.
North America - Hybrid
Ten weeks
Pre-Seed to Series A

Applications are now open

Up to Series A funded startups are invited to apply

Apply now

About the program

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A man is explaining something, and others are listening carefully.

About the program

A global series of programs
Each accelerator features a cohort of 10-15 top startups that come together to tackle specific technical challenges that can help grow their businesses through a mix of remote and in-person, 1-to-1, group learning sessions, and sprint projects.
Tailored, expert help
Founders outline the top technical challenges for their startup, and are then paired with relevant experts from both Google and the industry to solve those challenges and grow their business.
Specialist deep dives
In addition to mentorship and technical project support, Google for Startups Accelerators include deep dives and workshops focused on product design, customer acquisition, and leadership development for founders.

Key benefits

  • Equity-free support

    Equity-free support: For duration of program.

  • Mentoring

    Dedicated mentoring from Google teams.

  • Training

    Exclusive invitations to technical bootcamps hosted by Google where offered.

  • Access to experts

    Access to Google's network of industry experts.

  • Google product credits

    Eligible startups receive product credits.

  • Early access

    Access to new Google products and tools as relevant.

  • Strategic support

    Support on company and product strategy.

  • Technical project partnership

    Work hand in hand with experts from Google on your biggest tech challenges.

  • Founder Network

    Connect and learn from fellow founders, and access a peer-to-peer support network.

Entry Criteria

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Entry Criteria

  • Startups demonstrating traction, ideally between Pre-Seed and Series A stage
  • Building a scalable product or service with a significant total addressable market and defensible growth model
  • Deeply technical and leveraging AI and/or machine learning
  • Commitment from CEO and CTO and/or technical roles to participate and engage in required program sessions
  • We are committed to building Accelerator classes that are diverse and inclusive, and encourage applications from qualified startups with founders of all backgrounds, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, veteran status, and geography

Key dates

  • December 16, 2024

    Applications Open

    Add to calendar
  • February 4, 2025

    Applications Close

    Add to calendar
  • April, 2025

    Program Kick-off

  • June, 2025

    Demo Day

  • June, 2025

    Graduation

Frequently asked questions

Who should apply to the Google for Startups Cloud AI Accelerator?

The accelerator program is best suited for AI/ML-focused Pre-Seed to Series A revenue generating tech startups that are headquartered in the United States and Canada. Selected companies should have a minimum of 5+ employees and the founder and appropriate team members must be available to join all program elements of their cohort. In order to ensure Google can provide meaningful value, startups should be building AI/ML technology in their product, service or operations.

What is the format of the program?

The accelerator runs for a period of ten-weeks with a mix of remote and in-person, 1-to-1, group learning sessions, sprint projects and mentorship. As part of the Google for Startups Accelerator, selected founders outline the top technical and business challenges facing their startup, and are then paired with relevant experts from Google to help solve those challenges. Participating startups receive deep mentorship on technical challenges with an emphasis on data, ML, AI, as well as connections to relevant teams from across Google. Additionally, curriculum will cover Cloud and tech, UX and Product, Growth, Sales & GTM, Leadership and setting OKRs. Learn more from from founders in the program in this video.

The program concludes with a Demo Day where each team will be able to pitch to potential partners, customers and investors. Learn more here.

What if my startup is not based in North America?

While this program is specifically for startups based in the U.S. and Canada, programs for other regions will be announced in 2025. Additionally, you can find a full list of all programs offered around the world here.

Does the program culminate in any final event - like a pitch competition?

At the end of the program, startups will take part in closing celebrations and Demo Day. Founders will also have the opportunity to share their startup/products with cohort-mates, Google senior leaders, members of our investor mentor network, and other teams around Alphabet. It is mandatory for each startup to participate in Demo Day. For inspiration from a previous cohort, you can check our 2024 AI First Demo Day and watch Demo Day highlights.

Does Google maintain relationships with the founders who participate?

We like to support the ongoing journey of our accelerator alumni. Upon graduation, founders will join our North American Accelerator Alumni Community with continued access to Google experts, events, early access programs and more.

Additionally, a big part of our accelerator programming focuses on helping founders build impactful networks, so Google mentors often continue cultivating relationships with participants after the formal accelerator program wraps. We also tap into alumni for speaking opportunities, ongoing mentorship and more.

What are the criteria to receive product credits, and what does "eligible for product credits" mean?

Startups must meet specific criteria to be eligible for Google product credit offerings. To learn more about the Google Cloud credit eligibility requirements, please visit the Google Cloud startup page.