Technology company Google announced the launch of the AI Futures Fund, a new initiative aimed at investing in and supporting startups focused on AI. The program is designed to engage startups across different stages of growth, offering early access to AI models developed by Google DeepMind, along with technical resources, expert guidance, and potential equity funding to support development and scale.
Participants in the AI Futures Fund will have the opportunity to work with some of Google DeepMind’s latest technologies, including advanced models such as Gemini, Imagen for image generation, and Veo for video generation. In addition to early model access, selected startups will collaborate directly with specialists from Google DeepMind and Google Labs, including researchers, engineers, product teams, and go-to-market professionals.
The initiative also includes access to Google Cloud infrastructure, with eligible startups receiving credits and technical assistance to support the development and scaling of AI-based solutions. Furthermore, a number of startups in the program may be considered for direct equity investment from Google, aimed at accelerating their innovation and commercial growth within the AI sector.
The AI Futures Fund does not operate on a batch or cohort model. Instead, the company evaluates opportunities on a rolling basis without a fixed application window or deadline. The company may choose to invest when it identifies projects that align with the fund’s objectives. Google is not disclosing a specific fund size at this time, and that investment amounts vary depending on a startup’s stage and needs, typically targeting early- to mid-stage startups, with flexibility to support later-stage ventures as well.
Over the past several months, the AI Futures Fund has been working with a select group of startups from various sectors, including Cartwheel, Synthesia, Toonsutra, Viggle, Volley, Spline, Rooms, Fal, Tldraw, Harvey, Replit, and Glean. The fund is said to be open to companies operating in regions where Google’s Gemini models are available, with a focus on identifying startups interested in shaping the future of AI in collaboration with Google.
Google Expands Global AI Support For Research, Education, And Nonprofit Innovation
In addition to this initiative, Google has been making broader efforts to support the advancement of AI talent and research. In November, Google.org, the company’s philanthropic arm, committed $20 million in funding to scientists and researchers working in the AI field. This followed a September announcement by Google CEO Sundar Pichai regarding the launch of a $120 million Global AI Opportunity Fund aimed at expanding access to AI education and training globally. Google.org also introduced a $20 million generative AI accelerator program to provide funding for nonprofits developing AI-driven technologies.
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