Google for Startups has partnered with Antler India to introduce the Google for Startups Immersion programme in India. This initiative is aimed at founders and technical leaders building AI-focused startups with live products. Applications for the programme opened on May 8 and will close on May 22,, according to an official announcement.The two-phase hybrid programme is designed for startups that already have a minimum viable product (MVP) and early traction, with a focus on improving how they build and scale using artificial intelligence tools and business frameworks.
Google for Startups Immersion : Eligibility and selection criteria
The programme is open to founders, CTOs, and technical leads who already have a deployed product and verifiable traction. Startups at the idea stage are not eligible.Participants will be evaluated on their ability to demonstrate practical use cases of AI tools covered during the sessions. Around 50 startups will be shortlisted for interviews, from which 25 to 30 will be selected for the final offline immersion.Key dates and timeline* Applications open: May 8, 2026* Applications close: May 22, 2026* Online sessions: June 2, 4, 9, 11, 2026* Offline shortlist announcement: June 15, 2026* Offline immersion: June 26, 2026The programme reflects a growing focus on applied AI development in India’s startup ecosystem, combining technical training with business guidance for companies already in execution.
Google for Startups Immersion: Two-phase programme with technical and business tracks
The programme will be conducted in two stages: an online immersion, followed by a selective in-person cohort.Phase 1 — Online Immersion (June 2, 4, 9, 11, 2026):This phase will involve up to 5,000 people from around the country over two weeks, with four virtual sittings. The technical track will include training on technologies such as AI Studio, Antigravity, and the Gemini Enterprise Agent Platform, with Google for Startups as the lead partner in delivering the content. The business track will be organised by Antler India, focusing on AI investment trends and defensibility.Phase 2 — Offline Immersion (June 26, 2026):A shortlist of around 25 startups will be invited to attend an in-person session at Google Ananta. Selection will be based on performance in the online phase, followed by rapid interviews. The offline event will include architecture whiteboarding sessions with Google Cloud engineers, one-on-one mentoring with Antler’s team, and closed-door discussions.
