On Monday, Google introduced the AI Futures Fund, a new initiative aimed at supporting AI startups that are developing solutions using the latest AI technologies from Google DeepMind, its advanced AI research lab.
The fund will invest in companies across all stages, from seed to late-stage ventures. It will provide a range of support, including early access to DeepMind’s AI models, collaboration opportunities with experts from Google DeepMind and Google Labs, and credits for Google Cloud services. Additionally, select AI startups may receive direct financial investment from the company.
“The AI Futures Fund doesn’t follow a batch or cohort model,” a Google spokesperson said. “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.”
The AI Futures Fund has already showcased early success stories, with startups like the meme-generation platform Viggle and the webtoon app Toonsutra participating in the program. Startups began submitting applications for the fund on May 12.
This initiative is part of Google’s broader commitment to advancing AI innovation and talent. Over the past several months, the company has made significant investments to foster AI research and education. In November, Google.org—Google’s philanthropic arm—committed $20 million to directly support scientists and researchers.
In September, CEO Sundar Pichai launched a $120 million Global AI Opportunity Fund to expand AI training and education worldwide. Additionally, Google.org created a $20 million generative AI accelerator to provide funding to nonprofits developing AI-driven solutions.
In addition to launching the AI Futures Fund, the company also operates the Google for Startups Founders Funds, which actively supports entrepreneurs from diverse industries and backgrounds, including those building AI-driven companies. Notably, in February, a spokesperson announced that the fund would begin investing in AI-focused startups in the U.S. this year. Furthermore, they indicated that additional details would be shared in the coming months.
