Google and Nvidia Collaborate to Propel AI Development for Startups of Every Size

As global startups strive to create innovative AI products, Google is raising the stakes by centralizing essential resources. At the ongoing Google Cloud Next conference in Las Vegas, Google announced a partnership with Nvidia to merge their startup acceleration programs.

This collaboration unites the Google for Startups Cloud Program with Nvidia's Inception initiative, offering startups an all-encompassing suite of tools—ranging from cloud credits to technical resources—to build AI applications and deliver customer value more efficiently.

How Will the Joint Accelerator Effort Help?

The Google for Startups Cloud Program has been instrumental in supporting startups at various stages of their journey. It provides access to Google Cloud Platform resources, including up to $350,000 in cloud credits, technical and business mentorship, and opportunities for community networking. Specifically for AI-first startups, Google offers dedicated training and access to its robust AI ecosystem, including advanced products like Vertex and foundational models.

Similarly, Nvidia's Inception program assists AI startups throughout their lifecycle, helping them navigate its expansive ecosystem. Eligible participants benefit from preferred pricing on Nvidia's innovative software and hardware, including cutting-edge GPUs designed for language models. They also receive free workshop credits and access to the Deep Learning Institute, plus networking opportunities with industry experts and investors to expedite their market launch.

With this partnership, members of one program can access the benefits of the other. For example, Nvidia Inception members can leverage a streamlined path to Google Cloud infrastructure with up to $350,000 in cloud credits. Conversely, participants in Google’s initiative can tap into Nvidia’s technological resources, educational course credits, and hardware.

This combined effort is poised to revolutionize the landscape for AI startups, particularly early-stage companies grappling with high technology costs and entry barriers.

In a recent blog post, Greg Estes from Nvidia highlighted that startups from both programs will receive expedited onboarding to Google Marketplace, co-marketing opportunities, and product acceleration support, allowing them to reach customers more swiftly.

While specifics on the number of startups benefitting from these resources remain undisclosed, the initiative is anticipated to support hundreds globally. Nvidia’s Inception program alone boasts 18,000 startups, while Google’s participation figures are not yet confirmed.

Building on Existing Collaboration

This latest partnership underscores a commitment to accelerating the development of generative AI applications. Nvidia has previously collaborated with Google to ensure its Grace Blackwell AI platform is available to all Google Cloud customers, optimizing performance and cost efficiency across Nvidia’s AI platforms.

Notably, Nvidia’s NIM microservices integrate seamlessly with Google Kubernetes Engine (GKE), providing enterprises with a simplified approach to developing AI applications and deploying optimized models in production.