What Is Google for Startups?
A global program by Google that offers a range of resources—accelerators, credits, mentorship, training, and community—to support startups from early stages to growth. It’s designed to connect startups with Google’s expertise, technology, and networks globally Google for Startups.
Key Programs for Startups in India
1. Accelerator: AI First
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A 3-month, equity-free program for Seed to Series A startups focused on AI-based products or foundational models.
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Offers mentorship in AI/ML (including generative AI), Cloud, UX, product design, leadership, and growth.
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Participants may receive up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits, 30 days of free TPU access, and ongoing alumni support Google for Startups.
2. Accelerator: India
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Also a 3-month equity-free program for tech startups (Seed to Series A) across various verticals.
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Support includes Google expertise in AI/ML, Cloud, Mobile, Web, UX, and product strategy + up to $350K cloud credits and more Google for StartupsGoogle for Startups.
3. Accelerator: Apps
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Focused on Android app-based startups in India.
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Runs for ~3 months; powered by Google Play and supported by India’s MeitY Startup Hub.
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Includes technical bootcamps, mentoring, product credits, TPU access, and strategic support Google for Startups.
4. Accelerator: Women Founders
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A 10-week hybrid program for women-led tech startups (up to Series A).
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Offers tailored mentorship, deep-dives in product, design, leadership, and growth planning.
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Equity-free and includes up to $350K in cloud credits, TPU access, and ongoing alumni support Google for StartupsGoogle for Startups.
5. Founders Academy
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Leadership-focused training with coaching sessions, data-driven growth strategies, and global expansion guidance.
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Includes equity-free support, mentorship, leadership training, and access to the founders’ network Google for Startups.
6. Startup School
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A set of virtual workshops and live sessions open to early-stage founders.
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Covers practical skills like setting OKRs, hiring, building data pipelines, and using Google Ads, Cloud, Analytics, and YouTube tools Google for Startups.
7. AI Academy India (Bootcamp)
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A 3-day AI bootcamp held across multiple Indian cities.
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Hosted in collaboration with MeitY Startup Hub and incubators like Kerala Startup Mission, IIT Bombay’s SINE, IIM Ahmedabad, etc.
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Focuses on solving domain-specific challenges in healthcare, agriculture, education, and more using AI blog.google.
Events & Community Highlights
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Google AI Day for Startups took place at AIC‑BIMTECH, Greater Noida with over 150 participating startups. It featured generative AI trends, investment insights, and networking plenaries The Economic Times.
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At Google I/O Connect India 2025, Google further underscored its commitment to support Indian startups with localized Gemini 2.5 AI tools, Agentic AI in Firebase Studio, and training collaborations with Unity The Economic Times.
Summary Table
| Program | Duration | Target Stage | Focus / Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| AI First Accelerator | ~3 months | Seed–Series A (AI) | Mentorship, $350K credits, TPU access, AI support |
| India Accelerator | ~3 months | Seed–Series A (Tech) | Technical + product mentoring, $350K credits |
| Apps Accelerator | ~3 months | Seed–Series A (Apps) | Android focus, Google Play support, MeitY collaboration |
| Women Founders Accelerator | 10 weeks | Up to Series A (Women) | Tailored support, equity-free, cloud credits |
| Founders Academy | Varies | Early-to-growth stage | Leadership, coaching, go-global guidance |
| Startup School (Online) | On-demand | Early-stage founders | Practical Google product training & business skills |
| AI Academy Bootcamp | 3 days | Pre–Series A (AI) | Intensive AI bootcamp across Indian cities |
What Should You Do Next?
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Identify your current stage and focus—whether it’s AI, apps, women-led startup, or general leadership development.
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Check application timelines and eligibility—some programs are now closed or set for future cohorts.
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Join Startup School for ongoing support and skill-building sessions.
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Participate in events like Google AI Day to network, showcase your startup, and access valuable learning.
