Free SMB ad credits: 

In the coming months, Google said, eligible advertisers will see notifications about available ad credits in their Google Ads accounts. The credits can be used throughout 2020 on ads across the Google ecosystem, including Search Ads, Display Ads, YouTube Ads and other product campaign types.

Main caveat: Eligible SMBs will need to have had active Google Ads accounts since January 1, 2019.

Plus, there are additional ad grants available:

Google is also committing $20 million in ad grants to community financial institutions and NGOs to run PSAs on relief funds and resources for SMBs.

In addition, the company said it is increasing ad grants available to the World Health Organization and other government agencies to “provide critical information on how to prevent the spread of COVID-19” from an initial $25 million to $250 million.

Why we care about these free credits:

SMB’s are particularly vulnerable during this crisis and Google wants to help. Google says it hopes to “alleviate some of the costs to stay in touch with their customers.”  If you are an active advertiser working with us, or were active up until the COVID-19 pandemic, you will have some free credits coming your way.

1. Who is eligible for the ad credits?

Small and medium sized businesses globally, who have spent with a Google Ads account in ten out of twelve months of 2019, and in January and/or February of this year. Eligible customers are those who advertised directly with us or through a partner, and adhere to our advertising policies.

2. How will the ad credits work?

This is an ad credit for future Google Ads spend. It will not be applied to billed / invoiced past or current Google Ads spend. These ad credits will be applicable across the Google Ads platform including Search, Display, and YouTube as well as all campaign types.

3. When will SMB’s receive these ad credits?

Starting in late May, Google will begin rolling out the ad credits in phases. Over the following months, eligible customers will be notified and will see the ad credit applied in their Google Ads account.

4. How much are the ad credits?

The ad credit amount will vary by customer based on past Google Ads spend, and the country and currency where the business and Google Ads account is set up.

5. How long do I have to use the credits?

These ad credits can be used throughout the year and must be used by 31st Dec 2020. After 31st Dec 2020, the ad credit expires and any unused portion will be removed from your Google Ads account.