Google For Startups Black Founders Fund

Google for Startups Black Founders Fund is a global equity free funding initiative created by Google for Startups to support Black led technology startups. It operates through regional funds, including a dedicated Africa program, and provides non dilutive cash awards alongside product credits and hands on support. In Africa, Google for Startups Black Founders Fund backs early stage startups through grant funding, focusing on technology driven businesses with at least one Black founder and a legal presence on the continent. Based on recorded activity from October 2021 to November 2025, the fund has deployed approximately 15.8 million dollars across 48 funding rounds, primarily as grants, with selected pre seed and pre Series A participation. Its African portfolio spans Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Rwanda, Uganda, Cameroon, Ghana, and Zambia, with notable depth in Nigeria and Kenya. The fund supports a broad range of sectors including fintech, logistics and supply chain, health tech, e commerce and retail, agri tech, AI and analytics, travel and mobility, edtech, legal and compliance, HR and talent, and more. Across these African investments, Google for Startups Black Founders Fund has backed companies such as RideLink, Zanifu, Tushop, Raenest, Periculum, truQ, Evolve Credit, Clafiya, Healthtracka, Lupiya, and Crop2Cash, reflecting a focus on digital infrastructure, financial inclusion, logistics efficiency, and access to healthcare and education. The fund provides cash awards that do not require founders to give up equity, alongside Google mentorship and product support designed to help Black founders secure further funding, strengthen their communities, and scale sustainable businesses.