The Google for Startups Cloud Program is designed to help early-stage startups scale by providing cloud credits, technical support, and business resources. Google’s support for startups has evolved significantly in 2025, offering more tailored resources, especially for AI and Web3 ventures. This guide provides an updated overview of the Google for Startups Cloud Program, detailing benefits, eligibility, application processes, and insider tips to maximize your startup’s potential.

Start Tier (Pre-Funding)

Eligibility:

• Technology startups not yet funded by an institutional investor.
• Founded within the last 5 years.
• Not yet received Google Cloud credits (beyond the free trial)

Benefits:

• Up to $2,000 in Google Cloud credits, valid for one year.
• Access to technical resources and the global startup community.
• Additional Google product benefits, including Google Workspace discounts and Google Domains discount.

Scale Tier (Funded Startups)

Eligibility:

• Received startup equity funding from pre-seed to Series A (if Series A, raised within the last 12 months) by an institutional investor or common Web3 funding sources.
• Founded within the last 10 years.
• Not yet received more than $5,000 in Google Cloud credits.

Benefits:

• Year 1: 100% coverage up to $100,000 in Google Cloud credits.
• Year 2: 20% coverage up to an additional $100,000 in credits.
• Access to a Startup Success Manager, Google Cloud engineers, and co-marketing opportunities.
• Expanded access to Google Workspace discounts, Google Maps Platform credits, and upskill opportunities.

In addition to standard start and scale tiers for general startups, Google Cloud also offers two specialized tracks within the Google for Startups Program: one tailored for AI-first startups and another for Web3-focused ventures. 

AI Startups

Eligibility:

• Startups that use AI as their core technology to develop their primary products or solutions.
• Received equity funding from Seed to Series A (if Series A, raised within the last 12 months).
• Founded within the last 10 years.
  Not yet received more than $5,000 in Google Cloud credits.

Benefits:

• Year 1: 100% coverage up to $250,000 in Google Cloud credits.
• Year 2: 20% coverage up to an additional $100,000 in credits.
• Dedicated AI training, resources, and expert support.
• Access to AI webinars and content.

Web3 Startups

Eligibility:

• Start tier: 
  • Web3 projects not yet funded by an institutional investor or foundation.
  • Founded within the last 5 years.
  • Not yet received Google Cloud credits (beyond the free trial).
• Scale tier:
  • Web3 projects that have funding (including equity, tokens, NFT token fundraising, or a grant from a blockchain foundation) up to and including series A (if series A, raised within the last 12 months).
    • Be ready to provide proof of legitimacy for your funding.
  • Founded within the last 10 years.
  • Not yet received more than $4,000 in Google Cloud credits.

Benefits:

• Start tier:
  • Standard start tier benefits like up to $2,000 in Google Cloud credits
  • Access to Google Cloud events at global Web3 conferences
• Scale tier: 
  • Standard scale tier benefits like up to $200,000 over 2 years for Google Cloud and Firebase usage
  • Invite-only access to Web3 community and VIP access at global Web3 conferences
  • Up to $1 million in exclusive foundation grants from Web3 partners like Aptos, Celo, Flow, HBAR Foundation, Near, and Solana Foundation.
  • Up to $3 million in investments from the Polygon Ventures Ecosystem Fund and priority review for the Base Ecosystem Fund.

1. Prepare Your Information:
• Ensure you have a GCP account and Billing ID.
• Have a publicly available company website.
• Use a company email domain that matches the company website.
2. Determine Your Tier:
• Identify whether you fall under the Start, Scale, AI, or Web3 program based on your funding and focus.
3. Submit Application:
• Visit the Google for Startups Cloud Program page.
• Complete the application form with accurate and detailed information.
4. Await Review:
• Applications are reviewed based on eligibility requirements.

Approval is at the discretion of Google Cloud.

• Highlight Innovation: Explain why your product is unique and how Google Cloud fits into your technology stack. 
• Demonstrate Traction: Provide metrics or case studies that showcase user engagement, revenue growth, or market validation.
• Leverage Networks: If associated with recognized accelerators or VCs, mention these affiliations to strengthen your application.
• Be Transparent: Ensure all information provided is accurate, especially regarding funding and previous cloud credit usage.

1. Renewal and Upgrades

• Renewable Credits: If you show significant growth and cloud spend, Google may extend or renew credits after the initial period.
• Upgrade Tiers: Starting with a lower-tier credit award (e.g., $20,000) doesn’t mean you’re capped—startups can request an upgrade if their usage grows.
  

2. Access Beyond Credits

• Product Feedback Loop: Google often invites successful startups to provide feedback on new GCP products, giving you early access.
• VC and Partner Introductions: Even if you don’t directly partner with Google’s listed accelerators, startups can sometimes tap into networks by demonstrating traction.
  

3. Start Small, Think Big

• Begin with Free Tiers: Google Cloud offers a generous free tier—combine it with initial credits for a cost-efficient start.

• Know when to Start: Credits have an expiration date, so wait until you are ready to use the credits to activate them. Any credits you don’t finish by the end of the year (or two years, depending on the program) will be lost.

• Experimentation Friendly: GCP’s tools (BigQuery, Vertex AI) allow for cost-effective experimentation, especially when starting with credits.
  

4. Non-Tech Perks

• Some startups report receiving co-marketing opportunities, early access to events, and community memberships (like Google for Startups Campus access) that aren’t widely advertised.

The Google for Startups Cloud Program offers comprehensive support tailored to the evolving needs of startups, especially those in AI and Web3 domains. By understanding the tiers, benefits, and application nuances, startups can strategically leverage Google’s resources to accelerate growth and innovation.