Google Funds AI Developer Startup, Offers DeepMind Technology

Google Funds AI Developer Startup, Offers DeepMind Technology

Monday, 19 May 2025

Google has launched a new funding initiative called the AI ??Futures Fund to support startups or startups developing AI-based equipment. These new businesses can use technology from DeepMind, Google's AI research and development laboratory.

Through this program, Google will provide funding to startups from the early stages (seed) to the advanced stages (late-stage). The form of support varies, including early access to DeepMind's AI model, the opportunity to work directly with experts from DeepMind and Google Labs, and Google Cloud credit.

Referring to the Tech Crunch review on Monday, May 12, 2025, the AI ??Futures Fund does not use a wave or batch system. "We consider opportunities on a rolling basis. There is no registration window or fixed deadline," said an unnamed Google representative to Tech Crunch.

Google management has not announced the amount of funding. The company focuses on finding entities that match the program's vision and mission, then adjusting its capital needs. This step is part of Google's major commitment to supporting the wave of AI talent and new scientific breakthroughs.

"Generally for early to mid-stage, but also flexible for advanced stages," said a Google representative.

Several startups have already become part of this program, such as Viggle, an AI-based meme-making platform. There is also Toonsutra, a webtoon application. Registration for this program has been open since May 12.

In November 2024, Google.org—Google's philanthropic arm—announced US$20 million in funding for researchers and scientists in the field of AI. Two months earlier, Google Chief Executive Officer Sundar Pichai also announced the formation of a US$120 million Global AI Opportunity Fund to expand access to AI education and training globally.

Google also has a Founders Funds program, part of the Google for Startups program built to support startup founders from various backgrounds and sectors, including AI. In February 2025, Google stated that funding would be channeled to AI startups in the United States, but the information has not been detailed.