Google has announced the launch of its latest cohort of the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program in India, naming 20 promising homegrown AI startups as part of this initiative. The selected startups span a wide array of sectors including healthcare, finance, logistics, agriculture, and legal-tech, underlining India’s growing prominence in AI-led innovation.
The AI First Accelerator aims to support early- to growth-stage startups building AI-powered solutions. The program provides access to Google's advanced AI tools, mentorship from Google engineers, and a deep dive into areas such as responsible AI development, scaling operations, and go-to-market strategies.
Focus on Responsible and Scalable AI
Through this accelerator, Google seeks to equip Indian startups with the skills, guidance, and infrastructure required to build responsibly with AI. A major emphasis is being placed on responsible AI practices, scalability, and deploying real-world solutions that can make a tangible difference.
The 20 selected startups have been chosen for their innovative AI-driven solutions and potential to create global impact. They will undergo a 10-week program involving workshops, technical support, and mentorship on product design, growth, and fundraising strategies.
India's AI Landscape Receives a Global Boost
This cohort marks Google's broader strategic commitment to the Indian startup ecosystem. In its official statement, Google noted the need to empower the next generation of AI startups that are building locally but solving globally.
The accelerator program comes at a time when India is witnessing a sharp rise in AI-led entrepreneurship. According to reports, India has emerged as one of the top three AI startup ecosystems globally, with applications spanning across public services, SMEs, and enterprise solutions.
Startups in the Spotlight
The selected startups are tackling challenges across domains:
- Vizzhy is focused on improving diagnostics through medical imaging AI.
- NeuroSAPIR is applying AI to neuro-rehabilitation.
- LegalMind is developing AI tools for legal research.
- Seedle and Zodhya are building AI-led sustainability and agriculture platforms.
- Gan.ai is automating personalised video content using generative AI.
- Vitra.ai focuses on AI-led translation and content localisation.
Others in the list include Optimus Fintech, Insight Monk, AskRobin, and Oorjaa, each demonstrating unique use cases and solid market potential.
A Global-Standard Support Structure
Google's AI First Accelerator provides these startups with access to Google Cloud credits, mentorship from over 100 global experts, and opportunities to collaborate with leading venture capitalists and industry leaders.
In addition to technical support, the program offers masterclasses on product thinking, compliance, AI ethics, and scaling internationally. The selected startups will also participate in a Demo Day at the conclusion of the program, giving them visibility to potential investors and partners.
Why This Matters
The AI First Accelerator programme is particularly timely as the global race for AI dominance accelerates. With India’s digital economy projected to reach $1 trillion by 2030, nurturing AI innovation is a key pillar of the country’s growth strategy.
Google’s move also reflects a shift in big tech strategy — moving from pure infrastructure providers to ecosystem enablers — supporting startups not just with cloud and compute but with holistic guidance.
This initiative could pave the way for the next generation of globally competitive AI products emerging from India.