Google Selects Four Indian Startups for AI for the Planet Accelerator

On September 14, 2026, Google announced the selection of four Indian startups—Terrastack, Varaha Climate, Farmers for Forests, and Climitra Carbon—as part of its inaugural Google DeepMind Accelerator: AI for the Planet (APAC) cohort. This initiative includes a total of 16 startups from across the Asia Pacific region and aims to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to tackle pressing environmental issues. Over the next three months, these selected startups will gain access to the latest Google AI stack, receive tailored technical support, and benefit from expert mentorship. The program is designed to help them scale their innovative solutions focused on sustainability and climate action, delivering a significant impact on environmental challenges in their respective areas.

The Google DeepMind Accelerator is part of Google's broader commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainability through advanced technology. The AI for the Planet initiative supports startups, nonprofits, and research teams in utilizing frontier AI models to advance their ideas. Notably, the program will kick off with a hands-on bootcamp in Singapore, where participants will engage with various AI models aimed at tackling environmental issues. Google APAC's regional sustainability head, Spencer Low, emphasized the importance of these efforts in a recent blog post, highlighting the potential of AI to transform environmental stewardship.

Implementation of the program involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including the startups themselves and Google’s extensive resources. The selected startups are recognized for their innovative approaches to sustainability. Climitra Carbon focuses on converting waste biomass into bio-coal and biochar, providing a sustainable alternative for industries like steelmaking. Farmers for Forests incentivizes communities to restore degraded land into biodiverse forests through a payment for ecosystem services model. Terrastack is developing a geospatial data platform to enhance rural land intelligence and simplify land transactions. Varaha Climate promotes regenerative agriculture practices and carbon dioxide removal projects across multiple countries, aiding smallholder farmers in generating carbon credits.

The broader implications of these initiatives extend beyond the startups involved, as they contribute to environmental sustainability and economic growth. By utilizing AI, these companies aim to reduce carbon emissions, enhance biodiversity, and promote sustainable land management practices. The partnerships formed through this accelerator can lead to innovative solutions that address climate challenges while simultaneously fostering a green economy. The financial and technical support provided by Google is expected to amplify the impact of these startups in their respective regions, creating a ripple effect in the fight against climate change.

Looking ahead, the future of the selected startups appears promising as they embark on this accelerator journey. With access to cutting-edge AI technologies and mentorship from industry experts, they are well-positioned to refine their solutions and expand their reach. The initiative benefits not only the startups but also aligns with global efforts to combat climate change. As these startups advance their projects, they may set a precedent for similar initiatives worldwide, showcasing the potential of technology in driving sustainability and environmental responsibility. The success of this program could inspire further investments in climate tech and sustainable practices across various sectors.