Supporting Kiwi Innovation with the Google for Startups Accelerator
New Zealand startups can now apply for the Google for Startups Accelerator. For the first time, we are expanding our program across the Tasman to back Kiwi innovation.
From world-class creative tech to human-centric software, Aotearoa New Zealand has always punched above its weight on the global stage. Now, as artificial intelligence (AI) opens a massive new frontier for productivity and creative problem-solving, Kiwi startups are uniquely primed to build what comes next.
Aimed at supercharging that talent, the Google for Startups Accelerator is an intensive 10-week, equity-free accelerator. Running from September to November as a hybrid program, it’s tailored specifically for Seed and Series A startups leveraging AI and machine learning. This expansion brings Google’s global engineering muscle and resource network straight to New Zealand’s tech hubs.
Inspired by Kiwi Success
While this is our first official combined Australia and New Zealand cohort, the expansion was inspired by two incredible Kiwi startups from last year’s programme:
- Atomic Tessellator: This Auckland-based advanced materials simulation platform entered the program with a computational limitation of simulating a maximum of 44,000 atoms at once. Working alongside Google tech mentors, they completely shattered their previous record—scaling their infrastructure to simulate a maximum of 680,000 atoms. This technical breakthrough unlocked an entirely new scale of material modeling accuracy for their team.
- ThroughLine: A social and mental care network that helps the internet safely respond to individuals experiencing emotional crises, ThroughLine utilises highly localised helpline routing and AI-powered support, drawing backing from angel networks across both New Zealand and Australia to build an impactful global safety solution.
What Selected Founders Get
Scaling a tech company from New Zealand requires global connections, specialised infrastructure, and expert advice. By joining this Trans-Tasman cohort, founders will get:
- Direct AI Mentorship: Work one-on-one with Google's AI experts to scale your infrastructure and solve architectural challenges.
- Google Products & Infrastructure: Get access to Google tools, frameworks, and cloud credits to build quickly and securely.
- Trans-Tasman Collaboration: Build lifelong bonds with an ambitious cohort of founders from across Australia and New Zealand, opening up regional and global pathways.
- Strategic Masterclasses: Practical sessions designed to sharpen product-market fit, leadership, and international go-to-market strategies.
Shape the Future of Kiwi Tech
Whether you’re using machine learning to protect natural ecosystems, optimise logistics, or redefine global SaaS, this program is built to scale your impact.
Applications are open until July 19th. We can't wait to see what you’re building.
[Submit your application for the Google for Startups Accelerator: Australia & New Zealand here - https://startup.google.com/programs/accelerator/australia-new-zealand]
