Google for Startups Cloud: Start ($2k), Scale up to $350,000
Save ~$2000
FAQ names a Start ($2k) tier
cloud.google.com/startup is where cloud.google.com/startup/benefits now redirects. The FAQ still names a Start ($2k) tier for startups founded in the past 2 years, with a working MVP, a clear business model, and plans to seek venture funding soon. The page does not print $2,000 or valid for one year next to that tier. Funded tiers are named Scale and Scale AI, from $200K to $350k, for verifiable Pre-Seed to Series A funding. The funded card says up to $350,000 in Cloud credits over two years, for startups founded within the last 3-5 years. Footnote 1 still splits the years: AI startups get 100% up to $250,000 in year 1, and other startups get 100% up to $100,000 in year 1. Year 2 is 20% up to an additional $100,000. Footnote 6 says Pre-Seed to Series A funding within the last 3-5 years, depending on the tier. The FAQ says private equity, bank loans, government innovation programs, grants, crowdfunding, and friends and family do not qualify for Scale. SAFE notes, angel funding, a $5,000 prior-credit cap, and Series A within the last 12 months are not printed. Third-party models are billed directly and are not covered. A prototyping card offers AI Studio for pre-funded builders and new Google Cloud customers, and it does not print a credit dollar amount. Credits cannot be shared, split, or resold.
- Who
- Start ($2k): founded in the past 2 years, with a working MVP, a clear business model, and plans to seek venture funding soon. Scale and Scale AI: verifiable Pre-Seed to Series A funding. The funded card says founded within the last 3-5 years. Private equity, bank loans, government innovation programs, grants, crowdfunding, and friends-and-family funding do not qualify for Scale.
- Price after
- Google Cloud prices after the credits. Third-party models are billed directly and are not covered. A one-year limit on the Start tier is not printed.
- Last checked
- Nov 9, 2026
- Expires
- No end date stated