Google DeepMind launches first robotics accelerator for European startups

Three-month London-based program will back 10–15 early-stage teams building physical AI.

Google DeepMind has launched its first accelerator program, targeting early-stage robotics startups across Europe with a three-month, equity-free initiative focused on physical AI.

The program will support 10–15 startups and provide mentoring, access to Google infrastructure, and collaboration with DeepMind’s technical teams. Applications opened February 24, 2026 and close March 25, 2026, with the cohort kicking off in June at DeepMind’s London headquarters.

Joseph Michael, Venture Partnerships at Google, shared details of the announcement on LinkedIn, writing that the accelerator is “a 3-month, equity-free initiative with teams from across Google.” He added that the first cohort will focus on robotics, describing physical AI as “one of the most exciting areas in tech right now.”

Focus on physical AI and robotics

The accelerator is designed for European startups developing robotics solutions where AI is central to the product or technical roadmap. Google DeepMind says it is seeking teams operating across logistics, manufacturing, health and life sciences, human-robot interaction, education and learning, and advanced navigation.

According to the program details, participating startups must be early stage, headquartered in Europe, have verified VC backing, and include established technical teams of five or more members.

The accelerator combines digital training, one-to-one mentorship, and in-person workshops over 12–15 weeks. It will culminate in a Demo Day in London.

Access to Gemini robotics models and Google infrastructure

Startups will receive equity-free support and work directly with Google experts on technical challenges, including engagement with Google AI and Gemini Robotics models. The program also offers tailored training, mentoring on product and business development, and potential eligibility for up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits through the Google for Startups Cloud program.

Google DeepMind states that the initiative aims to help startups “bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and market-leading ventures” by leveraging Google’s AI stack and infrastructure.

The move positions DeepMind more directly in the early-stage robotics ecosystem at a time when physical AI is gaining traction across manufacturing, automation, and education-linked use cases.

Key dates and eligibility

Applications close March 25, 2026. The program begins with a five-day in-person event in London in June 2026, followed by online training and mentoring sessions through September, and a three-day graduation event later that month.

Only startups headquartered in Europe are eligible for the first cohort.

As large AI labs increasingly extend beyond model development into venture support and ecosystem building, the launch signals a push by Google DeepMind to shape the next generation of robotics companies at an early stage.

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