Shocking Shift: Google Drops 'Underrepresented' Language from Grant Program!

Summary:

Google has removed 'underrepresented' language from its Founders Fund webpage.
The Founders Fund, launched in 2020, has reportedly given over $50 million to support diverse founders.
Currently, the site states there are zero active grant programs available.
Google is shifting focus to AI startups, indicating a potential end to support for underrepresented founders.
Language changes reflect a broader trend among tech companies distancing themselves from DEI initiatives.

Google's Recent Changes to the Founders Fund

Just weeks after Google announced a review of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, significant changes have surfaced on the Google for Startups Founders Fund webpage. Most notably, the language describing its funding for underrepresented founders has shifted to past tense, indicating a potentially troubling trend.

The Founders Fund Background

Launched in 2020, Google's Founders Fund aimed to provide monetary grants, mentorship, and product support for startups led by underrepresented founders, including women and individuals from African and Latino backgrounds. The fund reportedly disbursed over $50 million to more than 600 founders, offering not just financial aid but also mentorship and Google Cloud credits.

Current Status of Grant Programs

However, the current status of these grant programs is alarming. The website now states that there are zero fund programs available, raising questions about the future of initiatives that specifically target minority groups. The programs that have been labeled as past funds include the Women’s Founders Fund, Latino Founders Fund, and the Black Founders Fund for both the U.S. and Brazil.

Shift in Focus?

It's unclear which programs have ended or been suspended, but Google's vague responses suggest a shift in focus away from underrepresented founders towards AI startups. A spokesperson indicated that while applications for the Google for Startups Funds in 2025 have not yet opened, the emphasis will be on supporting AI-focused startups.

Language Changes on the Website

In addition to the program changes, the language used on the website has also evolved. Previously, the site emphasized financial support for underrepresented communities. Now, it has pivoted to a more generalized description, stating it provides financial support for innovators without any specific mention of underrepresented groups.

The Broader Context

This trend of distancing from DEI initiatives is not isolated to Google. Other tech giants, including Meta and Amazon, have also begun adjusting their DEI language and activities amid increasing political pressure to roll back such programs. Reports indicate that while companies publicly distance themselves from DEI, they may continue to support such initiatives privately.

Simultaneously, U.S. grant programs designed for underrepresented communities have faced various legal challenges, highlighting the precarious position these initiatives are in today.

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