Google.org Impact Challenges 2026: Up to $3M Funding for AI Projects in Government Innovation and Scientific Breakthroughs

Google.org has launched two major global funding opportunities aimed at accelerating real-world impact through artificial intelligence: the AI for Government Innovation Challenge and the AI for Science Challenge.

Together, these initiatives commit $60 million in total funding to support nonprofits, social enterprises, and academic institutions using AI to solve major societal and scientific problems. Selected organizations also gain access to technical mentorship, Google Cloud resources, and a multi-month accelerator programme led by Google AI experts.

Overview of the Google.org Impact Challenges

The programme is designed to help organizations apply generative and agentic AI to address complex global challenges — from improving public services to advancing health research and climate science.

Beyond funding, participants receive:

• Pro bono support from Google AI engineers

• Access to advanced AI tools and cloud credits

• Training on AI strategy and responsible governance

• Participation in the Google.org Accelerator

AI for Government Innovation Challenge

Funding: $1 million – $3 million

This initiative supports projects that help governments improve public services using AI-driven solutions. Applicants must demonstrate collaboration with government partners and measurable community impact.

Focus Areas

Health: Improving access to healthcare services, supporting frontline workers, and enabling preventive care systems.

Resilience: AI-powered forecasting and crisis response to protect communities and strengthen disaster preparedness.

Economy: Enhancing infrastructure, affordability, and access to essential services using predictive optimization and automation.

Selection Criteria

• Strong social impact and community outcomes

• Innovative use of generative or agentic AI

• Feasible implementation plan with government adoption

• Scalability across regions and systems

AI for Science Challenge

Funding: $500,000 – $3 million

This initiative supports research projects using AI to accelerate scientific discovery and address fundamental global questions.

Focus Areas

Health and Life Sciences: Research to understand biological systems, disease mechanisms, and predictive medical models.

Climate and Environmental Science: Scientific breakthroughs improving climate resilience and planetary sustainability.

Selection Criteria

• Evidence-based scientific research

• Responsible and open use of AI

• Technical feasibility and expert team capacity

• Potential for global scalability and adoption

Who Can Apply

Eligible applicants include:

• Nonprofit organizations

• Social enterprises

• Academic institutions

Projects must demonstrate high-impact outcomes and alignment with responsible AI principles.

How to Apply

Click here to apply for the AI for Government Innovation Challenge. Find more information here.
Click here to apply for the AI for Science Challenge. Find more information here.

Key Deadlines

AI for Government Innovation: April 3, 2026
AI for Science: April 17, 2026

Click here to discover more global grant opportunities.