The Accel Atoms AI Cohort 2026 is an accelerator program designed for early-stage AI startups founded by Indian or Indian-origin entrepreneurs, offering up to $2 million in funding, extensive technical support from Google Labs and DeepMind, and tailored marketing assistance to help startups rapidly expand in the Indian market, with a program duration of three months starting in early 2026.
Benefits
Up to $2 million in funding from Accel and Google
$350,000 to $500,000 in Google Cloud and Gemini compute credits with early access to DeepMind models
Technical support from Google Labs and DeepMind research teams including co-development opportunities
Business and technical mentorship from Accel partners and Google experts
3-month program duration (expected to end in May 2026)
Global exposure and networking opportunities at events like Google I/O
Customized marketing support for rapid expansion in the Indian market
Access to Accel's global portfolio and expert network
Eligibility Criteria
Open to Indian and Indian-origin founders starting anywhere
Early-stage AI startups with potential for global expansion targeting the Indian market
Must have applications in AI and integrate at least one model from Google Gemini