Empowering the next generation of Australian startups

Kristine Song

Program Lead, Google for Startups Accelerator: Australia and New Zealand

Australia has a proud history of startups and tech innovation – from pioneering global mapping systems to developing cutting-edge platforms and products in medical tech, climate science, and enterprise software. Today, artificial intelligence and machine learning are fundamentally reshaping how startups build and innovate, and Australian startups are right at the forefront of this evolution.

Google has been pleased to support Australian founders building AI that competes on a global stage. Now, we’re ready for the next wave and are pleased to announce applications are open for the 2026 Google for Startups Accelerator: Australia & New Zealand.

Real Impact, Real Growth

A cornerstone of our Digital Future Initiative, this 10-week, equity-free, hybrid program is specifically designed to support Seed and Series A (or equivalent) startups utilising AI and machine learning to solve big, complex problems. Our accelerator isn’t just about providing mentorship—it’s been a launchpad for capital and scale. Over the past two years, our 2024 and 2025 cohorts have collectively raised over $58 million USD in funding. These local innovators have used the program to significantly transform their platforms and reimagine what’s possible. Some of the highlights include:

• Marqo which integrated Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE) and launched their product in the Google Cloud Marketplace during the program, going on to secure a $12.5M Series A round.
• Fetch which leveraged Gemini Flash 2.0 to automate veterinary records and claims processing, ultimately raising $9.44M post-program.
• Laronix which used Google’s Speech AI Instant Custom Voice technology to clone a patient’s natural voice print with just a 10-second sample, helping people speak again in their true voice This incredible work has helped Laronix raise 3.3 million AUD post-program

Bringing the best of Google’s technology to Australian innovators

It takes more than just a brilliant idea to build an advanced tech platform. It demands deep specialised expertise and talent, resilient technical foundation, and a trusted peer group. The Google for Startups Accelerator bridges that gap by connecting founders directly with our premier technologies, global networks, and people.

Australian startups accepted into the program receive@::

• AI Mentorship from Technical Leaders: Hands-on guidance from Google’s AI experts to help optimise models and infrastructure.
• Advanced Product & Infrastructure Support: Access to the Eligible participants receive access to leading Google tools, frameworks, and cloud resources to accelerate development securely and at scale during this early access phase
• A Trusted Network across AuNZ: Opportunities to collaborate, share insights, and problem-solve alongside an elite cohort of fellow pioneers from across Australia and New Zealand.
• Strategic Growth Masterclasses: Targeted workshops focused on essential concepts from product strategy, to tech design, leadership development, marketing, and operational excellence.

Ready to take your startup to the next level?? Applications are open from today until July 19th. This year’s program will run from September to November. If your startup is building the next wave of AI and machine learning solutions and you’re ready to scale, we’re ready to support you.

Apply to the Google for Startups Accelerator: Australia & New Zealand here