COVID-19: Google Offers $340M In Ad Credits To Small And Medium-Sized Businesses Worldwide

The World Health Organization has declared COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) a global pandemic. As the situation continues to worsen across the globe, COVID-19 is taking a devastating toll on both communities and lives. In addition, curfews, social distancing, as well as state- and government-mandated closures require people to stay home. Although some companies manage to remain operational, others cannot function upon remote operation. Simply put, it is an uncertain time with lots of unknowns. 

Google understands that many businesses are suffering the hardships of COVID-19. That’s why they have announced a $800+ million commitment to support small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs); part of it includes $340 million in Google ad credits! Their monetary contributions will also aid health workers, government agencies, and health organizations that are on the frontline of this global pandemic. 

About the Free Google Ad Credits

These Google advertising credits are designed to help alleviate some of the cost of staying in touch with customers during this challenging time. SMBs that are eligible for the credits and can use them at any point until the end of 2020. Remaining credits or unused portions will automatically be removed from the Google Ads accounts of small and medium-sized businesses. 

Why do these Google Ad Credits Matter?

Efficient and consistent communication with clients is the key to preserving customer relationships. In most cases, marketers and advertisers alike will need to establish trust with potential and current customers through paid advertising, information directly on their websites, or email. With sufficient Google advertising credits, business owners do not need to turn their PPC advertising campaigns off during COVID-19.

Are You an Existing Advertiser on Google?

These ad credits are only available to small- and medium-sized businesses who advertise directly on this platform or through Google Partners since the beginning of 2019. In other words, entities who were active since Jan 1, 2019 and comply with all stipulated Terms and Conditions will stand to receive said credits. If business owners meet these criteria, chances are they will be informed in the coming months via Google Ads account notifications. There is, however, no information about how much ad credits will be issued to each advertiser or when they will become available. Be patient; Google is still in the process of implementing this new credit system on their network. 

Note: Small businesses who open new Google Ads accounts do not qualify for these credits. 

Where can SMBs Use their Free Google Advertising Credits?

Your free ad credits are recognized across a wide range of Google’s advertising channels, including YouTube, Display, Search, and all campaign types.

Staying Updated

It is recommended that you visit Google for Small Business for the latest updates on these credits. Google may implement periodic updates, so it is important that you have up to date information during this period of uncertainty. 

You can also read the full version of Sundar Pichai’s message (CEO of Google and Alphabet) to better understand how the organization plans to respond to the COVID-19 crisis and continue supporting small businesses across the globe.