Google has opened applications for the third cohort of Kes510.4 million black founders fund for startups in Africa and Europe.

The selection criteria will focus on firms based on the continent with black founders as well as firms serving black people.

Upon selection, the startups will get up to Kes19.14 million in equity-free cash awards and up to Kes25.5 million in Google Cloud Platform training, and access to a network of mentors to assist in tackling the challenges unique to each startup.

 Google sub-Saharan Africa Head of startup Ecosystem Folarin Aiyegbusi noted that startups are a critical driver of innovation, economic growth and social progress.

 “Especially in Africa and the support that the selected startups will receive will go along with way to unlock the potential and promote growth in the African tech ecosystem and the next generation of African tech entrepreneurs, we encourage all eligible startups to apply,” he said.

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The program has supported 110 black-owned startups across Africa.

Further, 60 growth-stage startups were selected and supported through the program’s last stop in Africa.

Africa has a growing population, with 1 in 3 Africans expected to be under 35 by 2050.


Black founders, the black founder's fund program for startups not only provides funding but also hands-on support, connections, and resources to help founders build solutions that are relevant for the African economy.

The applications for the third cohort will close on March 26, 2023.