Google has launched the AI Futures Fund, a new initiative designed to support startups building with cutting-edge artificial intelligence tools developed by Google DeepMind.
Unlike previous initiatives limited to either philanthropy or regional support, this programme is structured to support startups beyond funding.
We’re looking at a full-stack support model that includes early access to AI models like Gemini, Imagen, and Veo; technical assistance from Google DeepMind and Google Labs; Google Cloud credits; and in some cases, direct equity investment from Google.
Startups across different growth stages, whether at seed or scaling globally, can now apply to benefit from this hands-on support, starting 12 May.
What sets this apart is the deliberate involvement of Google’s core AI engineering, product, and commercial teams. Startups won’t just be customers or partners, they’ll be collaborators.
So far, a few names have already gained from this early-stage programme. Toonsutra, a digital comic platform in India, is using Gemini to translate content across the country’s complex language terrain.
Another, Viggle, a meme-making platform, has started testing video content creation using Gemini, Imagen and Veo. Rooms, a 3D interaction platform, is also part of the pilot group, experimenting with new content formats using Google’s tools.
Here’s how Google laid it out:
“Startups working with the AI Futures Fund will receive the following:
- Early access to select AI models from Google DeepMind: This includes some of our most advanced AI models like Gemini, Imagen for image generation and Veo for video generation.
- Collaboration with Google experts: Startups get hands-on support from researchers, engineers, product managers, designers and go-to-market specialists from Google DeepMind and Google Labs.
- Google Cloud credits and support: The program provides Cloud credits and dedicated technical support from our Cloud experts to help build, train and scale AI-powered products.
- Equity investment: Select startups get the opportunity to seek direct investment from Google to fuel growth and scale AI development.”
The launch of the AI Futures Fund is just one part of Google’s vision to shape AI’s growth through structured, high-impact partnerships.
It follows a string of high-value initiatives, including a $120 million Global AI Opportunity Fund and two $20 million commitments: one to nonprofits working on generative AI and another to scientists and researchers tackling global problems with artificial intelligence.
Google is betting big on startups that are willing to build AI.
Startups interested in applying for the Google AI Futures Fund can begin the process now. The fund is open to companies in any region where Gemini is available.
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