Google has officially launched the AI Futures Fund, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at supporting startups that are building with the latest AI tools from Google DeepMind, the company’s advanced AI research lab. This powerful fund is designed to back startups at every stage from seed to late-stage, giving them not just financial help, but exclusive advantages like:
- Early access to Google’s AI models from DeepMind
- The chance to collaborate directly with experts from DeepMind and Google Labs
- Generous Google Cloud credits
- And in some cases, direct investment from Google itself
Setting itself apart from typical accelerator programs, the Google company explains that
“The AI Futures Fund doesn’t follow a batch or cohort model.”
Instead, we consider opportunities on a rolling basis, there's no fixed application window or deadline. When we come across companies that align with the fund’s thesis, we may choose to invest. We’re not announcing a specific fund size at this time, and check sizes vary based on the company’s stage and needs typically early to mid-stage, with flexibility for later-stage opportunities as well.
Some early success stories are already in the spotlight including Viggle, a meme-making platform, and Toonsutra, a webtoon app, both of which have benefited from the program. Startups can apply starting May 12.
Google’s Growing Commitment to AI Innovation
This fund is just one piece of Google’s larger vision to lead the AI revolution. Over the past few months, the company has made massive investments to support AI research, talent, and global development:
- In November, Google.org (Google’s charitable arm) committed $20 million to researchers and scientists working in AI.
- In September, CEO Sundar Pichai unveiled a $120 million Global AI Opportunity fund, aiming to expand access to AI education and training around the world.
- Another $20 million initiative, the Generative AI Accelerator, is funding nonprofits building AI technologies for public good.
Additionally, Google’s Founders Funds program originally built to support diverse startup founders will now also begin investing in AI-focused startups across the U.S., with more updates expected soon.
