Google Cloud, Google’s comprehensive set of cloud computing services, has announced the launch of a Web3-specific program to help startups and projects thrive in the Web3 space.
This new program will be part of the existing “Google for Startups Cloud Program,” but with added benefits specific to Web3.
When applying for the Google for Startups Cloud Program, startups and projects at various stages of development, from pre-seed to Series A, will have the option to opt-in for the new benefits.
Selected startups will be able to build decentralized apps (dApps), protocols, or other services on Google Cloud’s platform for free, as well as have access to resources and the community.
The benefits of this program include companies getting up to $200,000 in Google Cloud credits over two years, as well as employing Google’s services to swiftly and securely build their Web3 apps with up to $100,000.
Furthermore, Google’s Web3 startup program provides access to advanced hands-on learning labs on Web3 and the most recent Google Cloud technology, as well as the creation of an invite-only Discord channel for sharing knowledge with Google Cloud Web3 product and engineering teams.
Startups will receive VIP access to worldwide Google Cloud Web3 events including Paris Blockchain Week, Consensus, and TOKEN2049 Singapore.
Aptos, Celo, Flow, HBAR Foundation, Near, and Solana Foundation are among Google’s foundation partners giving special grants of up to $1 million to encourage Web3 company growth, as well as development resources. The Polygon Ventures Ecosystem Fund will also provide startups with up to $3 million in funding.
This is not Google’s first foray into the Web3 space; in October 2022, Google Cloud and Coinbase announced a long-term partnership to harness one another’s strengths, one of which is allowing Google Cloud customers to pay for its services using cryptocurrencies.
Google is not the first company to launch a program in an attempt to support companies in the Web3 space; in January, Mastercard unveiled its Web3-based “Mastercard Artist Accelerator” program, in an attempt to support musical artists in the digital world, while in February Sony Network Communications collaborated with Astar and Startale Labs to launch a three-month Web3 incubation program.
