Google & Accel to Launch Atoms AI Cohort 2026 for Indian Startups

Google’s AI Futures Fund has teamed up with Accel Atoms to launch a new cohort of AI startups, seeking pre-seed founders building innovative AI applications.

Selected startups participating in the Accel Atoms x AI Futures Fund will benefit from a unique opportunity package that includes exclusive early access to Google DeepMind’s models, such as Gemini, Imagen, and Veo.

Participants will receive mentorship from experts in engineering, product development, and go-to-market strategies at Google and Accel. Founders will also learn from global leaders like Sergey Brin and participate in an immersion programme in London and the Bay Area to connect with the global AI ecosystem.

Additionally, they will gain technical resources, including up to $350,000 in compute credits across Google Cloud, Gemini and DeepMind. 

Finally, startups will have the chance to receive direct equity investments of up to $2 million from both Accel and Google for Indian & Indian-origin founders, providing essential financial backing to accelerate their growth.

This partnership comes after Prosus joined Atoms X last month to support LeapTech founders creating next-generation companies at the crossroads of science and engineering. “Together, these partnerships reflect Accel’s mission to back founders early and connect them with global platforms that can accelerate their growth,” the investment company said in a statement. 

Applications for the Atoms AI Cohort 2026 are currently open at atoms.accel.com. Eligible founders must apply by January 26, 2026. The programme will commence in February 2026.

The cohort will support founders transitioning from engineering to orchestrating software. It will invest in AI that minimises tedious tasks, enabling workers to become ‘managers’ of specialised AI agents, while promoting creativity and participatory entertainment.

“There’s no model restriction, use what's best for your use case. However, we’re looking for at least one Gemini integration in your solution,” Accel Atoms said.