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Abraham Gomez for Google AI

Posted on • Originally published at Medium

The 2026 Ultimate Guide to Google for Startups: Funding, Accelerators, and $350k in Credits

#ai #startup #deepmind #google

Google offers a massive range of programs designed to support startups at every stage of their journey. Whether you're a pre-seed founder building your first MVP or a series B company scaling globally, Google provides access to technology, community, and expert guidance.

The headline benefit? Eligible startups can access Google Cloud credits ranging from $2,000 to $350,000, alongside mentorship from teams at DeepMind, Google Labs, and Google Cloud.

This guide is an updated 2026 version of my previous post, consolidating the newest launches from all Google programs (I will keep this updated quarterly).

Mapping the 2026 Google Startup Ecosystem

Before diving into specific programs, it’s helpful to understand the different "Product Areas" (PAs) and teams you'll interact with:

  • labs.google – The home for AI experiments like Whisk, Flow and Jules.
  • google.org – The philanthropic arm focusing on AI for societal impact.
  • startup.google.com – The primary hub for Cloud credits, accelerators, and education.
  • DeepMind – The unified research engine providing frontier models (Gemini) and technical guidance.
  • Google Cloud – The infrastructure powerhouse for scale, credits, and enterprise GTM support.

1. Funding Opportunities

Google doesn't just provide tools; they provide capital. Here is the 2026 landscape of Google-backed investment arms:

AI Futures Fund (Equity + Research)

Launched at Google I/O, the AI Futures Fund is a collaborative effort between Google DeepMind and Google Labs. It is a hybrid program providing equity funding alongside deep technical collaboration.

  • Focus: Early-stage frontier AI startups.
  • Check Size: Typically co-invests up to $2 million in selected startups (e.g., via partnerships like Accel Atoms).
  • Value Add: Rolling evaluations (no batch deadlines) and direct support from DeepMind researchers.

Apply for the AI Futures Fund

Gradient Ventures

Founded in 2017, Gradient Ventures is Alphabet's AI-focused venture arm. It primarily invests in technical founders who are building disruptive AI products.

  • Focus: Seed to Series A AI-first companies.
  • Check Size: Typically ranges from $1 million to $30 million.

CapitalG

CapitalG (formerly Google Capital) is Alphabet's independent growth fund focusing on companies that have already achieved product-market fit.

  • Focus: Growth-stage and late-stage tech (Series C and beyond).
  • Check Size: Typically $50 million to $200 million.

GV (Google Ventures)

Operating since 2009, GV is a sector-agnostic venture capital arm that provides funding across all stages, from seed to growth.

  • Focus: AI, Life Sciences, Consumer, Enterprise, and Crypto.

2. Accelerator Programs

Google’s accelerators offer structured mentorship where you are mapped with a dedicated "Googler Buddy." In 2026, the distinction between "accelerator" and "fund" has blurred with the introduction of technical-first initiatives.

AI Futures Fund (Technical Mentorship)

While it provides funding, the AI Futures Fund also acts as an always-on technical accelerator. Unlike standard 10-week cohorts, it provides:

  • No Batch Model: Review and acceptance happen on a rolling basis.
  • DeepMind Access: Collaborative research opportunities with the same teams building Gemini.
  • Early Model Access: Test experimental features in Gemini, Veo, and Nano Banana before public release.

Core Accelerator Directories

  1. Startup Directory: Features 15+ accelerators globally in 2025, including region-specific cohorts (e.g., Brazil, India, MENA).
  2. Developer Directory: Includes impact-focused accelerators for Black, Latino, and Women founders.
  3. Google.org Accelerator: Focused on nonprofits and social impact organizations harnessing Generative AI.

Note: The Google.org Accelerators and Startup Directory are still in progress and should have more information later this quarter.

3. Google Cloud Credits: 2026 Program Tiers

The Google for Startups Cloud Program has been updated for 2026 with higher limits for AI-first companies.

Tier Eligibility Cloud & Firebase Credits Support & Perks
Start Tier Pre-funded; < 5 years old. Up to $2,000 (1 year) $200 Skill Boost; Workspace discounts.
Scale Tier Pre-seed to Series A. Up to $200,000 (2 years) $500 Skill Boost; Startup Success Manager.
Scale AI Tier AI-first; Pre-seed to Series A. Up to $350,000 (2 years) Frontier model access (Gemini, Claude).
Web3 Tier Blockchain-focused. Specialized Web3 benefits Partner perks (Alchemy, Nansen, etc).

You can read more about the eligibility for each below:

Apply to Google Startups Program

Beyond Credits: The Perks

Google has partnered with industry leaders to offer deep discounts and exclusive access:

  • Model Access: Up to $10,000 in credits for Anthropic (Claude) and Fireworks AI (Serverless inference).
  • Database & Ops: MongoDB Atlas, CockroachDB, and a full year of GitLab Ultimate for free.
  • Specialized AI Tools: ElevenLabs (33 million free credits), Contextual AI ($1.5k in credits), and more.

GIF Animation of Google for Startups Perks

If there is a tool you think should be included, you can nominate it here.

4. Google’s 2026 Startup White Papers & Insights

Here is a collection of whitepapers and resources I recommend to bookmark for all founders using Google Cloud.

5. Community & Global Events

Google Cloud Next ‘26

Las Vegas, April 22-24, 2026. The Startup Hub at Mandalay Bay is your home base for Masterclasses on Gemini 3 and 1:1 sessions with Cloud Customer Engineers. Don't miss the Founders Toast!

Register for Google Cloud Next '26

Events Near You

Don't forget about the many many events both in person and virtual from Deepmind, Google Cloud, and Google developer communities.

Any Questions?

Save this article for your application season! Got questions? Drop a comment below or connect with me on X/Twitter @WhoInvitedabe or on LinkedIn/in/GoAbeGo.

Talk soon!

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