A new group of artificial intelligence start-ups has been selected for the latest edition of the Atoms AI program, an initiative aimed at supporting early-stage founders building advanced AI solutions.
Accel and Google’s AI Futures Fund have announced the 2026 cohort of the Atoms AI program, selecting 5 start-ups from 4,000+ applications. The chosen companies will receive up to $2 million in co-investment along with compute credits worth up to $350,000.
This year’s batch reflects a growing focus on innovation across enterprise, voice and industrial AI.
The selected start-ups include K-Dense, Dodge.ai, Persistence Labs, Zingroll and LevelPlane.
K-Dense is developing an AI co-scientist designed to accelerate discoveries in life sciences and chemistry. Dodge.ai is working to introduce autonomous AI agents into ERP systems. Persistence Labs aims to transform large-scale call centre operations using voice AI technology.
Zingroll is focused on building AI-native entertainment and streaming experiences for consumers. Meanwhile, LevelPlane is developing industrial automation solutions for precision-led automotive and aerospace manufacturing.
The Atoms program, created by Accel, is an equity-backed initiative that supports early-stage AI founders with funding, mentorship and company-building guidance.
Jonathan Silber, Co-Founder and Director of the Google AI Futures Fund, highlighted the importance of the support offered through the program. He said that with early access to Google’s most advanced AI models and compute power, start-ups can address complex challenges more efficiently and responsibly.
The AI Futures Fund focuses on supporting innovative AI start-ups around the world. The initiative combines funding with early access to technology, infrastructure and mentorship from teams at Google and DeepMind.
This year’s program received nearly 4x more applications compared with previous batches, reflecting the rising interest in enterprise-focused AI solutions.
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