Our continued support for startups in Ukraine
Since the devastating war in Ukraine started, Google has committed over $45 million in cash and $7 million in kind to support humanitarian relief efforts for people in Ukraine and those fleeing the war. We’ve also sought to use our products to help people affected by the war, like protecting against cyber attacks and fighting misinformation.
In my role, I’ve worked with hundreds of startup founders who have taught me a lot about how entrepreneurship is a key engine of economic growth and innovation.This is why we were so keen to provide support to the Ukrainian startup ecosystem. In March 2022, we launched the Google for Startups Ukraine Support Fund, which has gone on to provide $5 million in equity-free cash awards to 58 recipients. Startups supported by the Ukraine Support Fund have received $15.8 million in follow-on funding, created 100% revenue growth and significantly increased their employment despite the war and hardships they have faced. Many, like Skyworker.ai and Mindly, are using AI to drive economic opportunity; and several have been recognized by world experts — for instance, Zeely’s founders were all listed in Forbes Europe’s 30 under 30 list.
Today, we are announcing a second Google for Startups Ukraine Support Fund, worth $10 million, to allocate equity-free cash awards throughout 2024 and 2025. Like the first fund, selected Ukraine-based startups will be announced on a rolling basis and will receive up to $100,000 in non-dilutive funding, as well as ongoing Google mentorship, product support and up to $300,000 in Cloud credits. This hands-on support is designed to help Ukrainian entrepreneurs maintain and grow their businesses, strengthen their community and build a foundation for post-war economic recovery. Applications will open later this year.
In 2022, we were honored to receive the first-ever “Peace Prize” award introduced by President Zelenskyy for our work to support the people of Ukraine. Since then, the war has taken on new dimensions, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to being worthy of that award.
