Google and Accel Join Hands to Support Early Indian AI Start-ups

Google has joined hands with venture capital firm Accel to support India's AI startup ecosystem, offering funding up to $2 million per startup through a specially crafted cohort programme in 2026. The initiative aims to nurture innovative early-stage AI startups and build globally scalable products from India. 

Google & Accel Back Indian AI Startups Through Atoms AI 2026 

Google’s AI Future Fund and Accel have revealed a new India-focused cohort under the Atoms AI programme. This 3-month customised initiative will provide selected AI-first pre-seed startups with financial backing of up to $2 million, along with $3,50,000 in Google credits covering tools like Cloud and Gemini. It also includes early access to DeepMind models and hands-on mentorship from domain experts in engineering, product, and go-to-market strategies. 

The application window for the 2026 cohort closes on January 26, 2026, and is inviting founders building AI solutions in work automation, software development, creativity tools, and entertainment technologies. According to Google, the programme seeks bold visionaries aiming to use AI for impactful innovation at scale. 

Accel’s Scaled-Up AI and Global Outreach Strategy 

Since its inception in 2021, Accel’s Atoms initiative has been at the forefront of nurturing early-stage startups. In 2023, it expanded into Atoms AI and Atoms X tracks. Atoms AI not only backs Indian founders locally but also supports Indian-origin founders globally.  

The funding ticket under this programme has increased to $1 million, with the addition of perks worth $5 million from partners including OpenAI, AWS, and Stripe, apart from Google itself. Earlier backed startups include Revvolution AI, BPRHub, and Zingle as part of last year's cohort. 

Read More: India’s Gold and Silver Mutual Fund Assets Cross ₹1 Lakh Crore Amid Rising Demand! 

Google's Continued Push For AI-Led Innovation 

Google is running parallel initiatives to boost AI innovation in India. In September 2025, it launched a separate “Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First” programme involving 20 handpicked startups for a 3-month equity-free mentorship programme. This helps expand Google’s outreach within India's AI startup landscape beyond traditional investment routes. 

Conclusion 

The collaboration between Google and Accel marks another milestone in strengthening India’s AI-focused startup ecosystem. By offering both capital and resources, the joint initiative positions India as a potential global hub for breakthrough AI solutions developed at the early stage. 

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