With podcasts on the rise, Google is the latest tech giant to get in on launching podcast programs to give aspiring and existing podcasters better access and opportunities to create content.
In April, Spotify launched Sound Up Bootcamp for women of color podcasters that resulted in 10 winners, 3 of which were awarded $10,000 each to launch their podcasts.
Google’s new, 20-week accelerator program, which will be open for applications until December 2, will offer intensive training, mentorship and $40K in seed funding for selected production teams. With Google often under fire, among other top tech companies, for low representation of diversity when it comes to hiring practices, the company will focus this particular program on training underrepresented voices. Google’s website states that the Google Podcasts creator program “is designed to increase the diversity of voices in the industry globally and lower barriers to podcasting.”
The site goes on to describe that the ideal applicants are creative, engaged producers who:
- Represent a range of geographies, backgrounds, views, voices and styles
- Either self-identify as marginalized in the podcasting landscape – whether due to race, ethnicity, gender, religion, economic background, sexual orientation, age, physical abilities or some other reason – or intend to reach an audience that self-identifies as marginalized in the podcasting landscape
- Have a fresh and compelling podcast idea
- Are interested in making their podcasts sustainable in terms of growing revenue and audience
Interested applicants are encouraged to head to Google’s website for more specifics before applying.
