About

The Google AI Startup Program offers two distinct tiers—Start and Scale—catering to AI-focused startups from pre-seed through Series A. Qualified participants gain access to significant Google Cloud and Firebase credits, support plans, advanced AI learning resources, architectural guidance, and expert Q&A sessions. To apply, startups must meet specific eligibility requirements around founding date, funding stage, and prior usage of Google Cloud credits. Acceptance is at Google Cloud’s discretion.

Tiers

Start Tier

up to 2,000

For pre-seed AI-first startups without institutional funding.

Up to $2,000 USD in Google Cloud credits (valid for one year)
Apply credits to Customer Care plan for unlimited technical support
12 months of free Google Workspace Business Plus for new signups
Access to AI experts via webinars and Q&A sessions
Free advanced AI learning labs and workshops

Eligibility

Core AI technology for primary product/solution
No funding from institutional investors or foundations
Founded within the last 5 years
Not yet received Google Cloud credits beyond the free trial
Eligibility at the discretion of Google Cloud

Effort: Very low 3 step s to apply

Obtain Google Cloud Billing ID. Sign up for Google Cloud if needed to generate a billing account ID Sign Up ↗
Set Up Google Workspace. Ensure your business email matches your startup’s website domain Sign Up ↗
Complete the AI Startup Application. Provide details about your startup’s AI use case and stage Apply Now ↗

Scale Tier

up to 350,000

For seed to series A AI-first startups with verified equity funding.

Up to $350,000 USD in Google Cloud & Firebase credits over 2 years
$12,000 USD in Google Cloud Enhanced Support credits for one year
12 months of free Google Workspace Business Plus for new signups
Access to AI experts, including roadmap insights
Advanced AI labs, architectural guidance, and Trusted Tester early access

Eligibility

Core AI technology for primary product/solution
Equity funding from seed to Series A (if Series A, raised within last 12 months)
Founded within the last 10 years
Not yet received more than $4,000 in Google Cloud credits
Eligibility at the discretion of Google Cloud

Effort: Moderate 3 step s to apply

Obtain Google Cloud Billing ID. Create or confirm your billing account ID under an existing Google Cloud account Sign Up ↗
Set Up Google Workspace. Use a business email from the same domain as your startup’s website Sign Up ↗
Complete the Scale Application. Provide funding stage and AI details for Google Cloud’s review Apply Now ↗