Google Awards $5M to 76 Diverse Startups in Racial Equity Push
Supporting Underrepresented Founders Through Strategic Funding
In response to 2020’s widespread calls for racial justice, Google has delivered on its June commitment to support underrepresented entrepreneurs. Through its Google for Startups program, the tech giant has distributed $5 million in non-dilutive funding to 76 diverse startups across the United States.
The Selection Process: Quality Meets Diversity
Jewel Burks Solomon, head of Google for Startups, spearheaded the initiative with clear criteria:
- Geographic diversity: Startups from Atlanta to Newark
- Mission diversity: Ranging from mental health to legal tech
- Funding readiness: Companies that hadn’t exceeded $3M in outside funding
“This isn’t about just writing a check,” Solomon emphasized. “We’re committed to providing ongoing support through our network of partner organizations.”
The Power of Strategic Partnerships
The selected founders all came through Google’s established networks:
- Google’s Founder Academy in Atlanta
- 17 partner organizations including Black Founders Exchange
This approach ensured recipients would benefit from both funding and mentorship opportunities.
Spotlight on Innovative Recipients
MindRight (Newark, NJ)
- Provides text-based mental health coaching for teens
- Focuses on culturally responsive care
ShearShare (McKinney, TX)
- Mobile marketplace for beauty professionals
- COVID-19 pivot to sanitized salon rentals
Courtroom5 (Durham, NC)
- Democratizes legal access for civil cases
- Offers guided templates and educational resources
Aquagenuity (Atlanta, GA)
- Water quality monitoring platform
- Born from founder’s personal health crisis
The Bigger Picture: Changing the Funding Landscape
While the $100,000 awards provide crucial seed funding, Solomon acknowledges the ongoing challenge:
- Growth-stage funding gaps persist for Black founders
- Mentorship is as valuable as capital
- Market potential in serving diverse communities is massive
“Brands that understand underrepresented groups represent a great investment opportunity,” notes Solomon, who also serves as managing partner at Collab Capital.
Looking Ahead
This initiative marks a significant step in Google’s broader diversity commitments. By combining:
- Financial support
- Strategic mentorship
- Ecosystem development
The tech giant aims to create lasting change in the startup landscape. As these 76 founders grow their businesses, they’ll serve as testaments to the power of inclusive investment strategies.
For the complete list of recipients, visit Google’s official announcement.
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