Google's Black Founders Fund
Google's Black Founders Fund is a $100 million fund to invest in Black-led startups. The fund was launched in 2020 in response to the systemic racism that Black entrepreneurs face in the tech industry.
5 Key Benefits of the Black Founders Fund
Investment: The Black Founders Fund provides Black-led startups with access to capital, which is often one of the biggest challenges they face.
Mentorship: Google provides Black Founders Fund recipients with access to mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and investors.
Network: Google connects Black Founders Fund recipients with other Black entrepreneurs and investors, helping them to build a strong network of support.
Resources: Google provides Black Founders Fund recipients with access to its resources, including Google Cloud Platform, Google for Startups, and more.
Visibility: Google helps to raise the visibility of Black founders and their startups.
4 Entry Criteria to Qualify
Black-led: The startup must be led by at least one Black founder.
Early-stage: The startup must be in the early stages of development.
Tech-enabled: The startup must be using technology to solve a real-world problem.
US-based: The startup must be headquartered in the United States.
How to Apply for the Black Founders Fund
To apply for the Black Founders Fund, startups must submit a pitch deck and answer a few questions about their business. The application process is open twice a year, in the spring and fall.
Google.org Powered 1 Million Fund
The Google.org Powered 1 Million Fund is a $1 million fund to support organizations that are working to help Black women succeed in the tech industry. The fund was launched in 2021 in partnership with the Black Girls CODE and the National Black Women's Technological Caucus.
How to Apply
To apply for the Google.org Powered 1 Million Fund, organizations must submit a proposal that outlines their work and how they plan to use the funding. The application process is open once a year, in the spring.
Conclusion
Google's Black Founders Fund and the Google.org Powered 1 Million Fund are two important initiatives that are helping to support Black entrepreneurs and Black women in the tech industry. If you are a Black founder or you lead an organization that is working to support Black women in tech, I encourage you to learn more about these funds and