Black Founders Fund

A Google for Startups program giving access to funding to Black-founded startups in Europe.

Today, with less than .5% of VC funding going to Black-led startups and Black people making up less than 3% of the VC community, it’s clear that Black founders disproportionately lack access to networks and capital needed to grow their businesses. If we want technology to work for everyone, it needs to be built by everyone.

The $2M Google for Startups Black Founders Fund will provide up to $100,000 in non-dilutive cash awards to selected European startups in the Google for Startups network paired with up to $220,000 per startup in Google Ads and Cloud credits.

Program Overview

Google for Startups Black Founders Fund is a program to provide financial resources to early-stage, Black-founded startups across Europe. In addition to the cash awards and credits, successful founders will be partnered with a Google for Startups Partner Manager to connect them with the best of Google’s products, practices and people.

Who Should Apply

The Black Founders Fund is for early-stage, Black-founded startups from across Europe.

Applications from Europe (except France, Spain, and Belgium)

Applications from France, Spain, and Belgium

Program Highlights

Non-dilutive (equity free) cash awards of up to $100,000 per startup.
Credits for Google products.
Access to a network of mentors to help tackle each startup's unique challenges.

FAQs

What is the total value of cash awards and credits each selected startup will receive?

No two startups are alike. That's why the investment value will depend on each startup's stage and current needs.

My startup has already received an investment. Can I still apply?

Yes, funding will be awarded based on each startup's needs and situation regardless of funding cycle.

How do I apply?

Applications open until March 21st.

Applications from Europe (except France, Spain and Belgium)

Applications from France, Spain and Belgium

How do I become a member of the Google for Startups community?

If my startup is selected will Google be an investor and a partner?

No, we're offering funding and credit awards that are equity free. That means we won't be taking a shareholding in selected startups. In other words, we'll be an ally in supporting your startup's growth but not a formal partner. We won't have any financial return on the funding.

Is the fund only for tech startups?

The fund is designed to help grow Black-founded tech businesses with a live product in market or business where technology is core to their ability to scale. It is therefore not for consultancies or not-for-profits.