Accel-Google's $2 million fund for Indian AI startups: All you need to know
Accel and Google are teaming up to launch the 2026 AI Cohort, offering up to $2 million in co-investment for early-stage Indian AI startups.
The program also welcomes diaspora founders building products for India and the world, with support from Google's AI Futures Fund.
How the funding works
Startups can get up to $1 million each from Accel, matched by Google—marking Google's first global partnership of this kind.
Selected teams will get early access to cutting-edge Google AI models like Gemini 3, plus hands-on tech and business support from both partners.
What they're looking for—and past wins
The focus is on startups building tools across the entire AI stack: think coding assistants, productivity apps, creative platforms, and entertainment tech.
Over the last four years, Accel's Atoms program has helped 40 companies raise over $300 million in follow-on funding.
The program also highlights India's growing strengths in robotics and healthcare thanks to its rich data resources.
A quick look at atoms
Accel's Atoms program backs high-potential early-stage startups with capital, mentorship, and resources.
The new 2026 AI Cohort is all about supporting ambitious founders who want to push what's possible with AI.