Google's Venture Capital Fund

Keyword for this post:
Business plans for venture capital

While Google's announcement of its $100 million venture capital fund may be "THE" news of the day, it really isn't news at all.

On its website, google.com/ventures, Google Ventures said it was

...looking for entrepreneurs who are tackling problems in creative and innovative ways. As a venture fund, however, we're also looking for investments with the potential for significant financial return.

Well, yes, that is what venture capital firms look for. Google is no different. In fact, Google has invested in a variety of start-ups over the years including through its philanthropic arm, Google.org. Venture capital is nothing new to this company.

So why all the hoop-la? Publicity I guess. They want to prove that they are doing something to help small businesses.

Well, it is all a bunch of baloney as far as I can see. Venture capital firms are not philanthropic, and Google is no different. If your company happens to have a splendiforous idea (a one in a million chance), you might be able to get money from Google, or from thousands of other venture capital firms. In fact, if your idea is that good, get your venture capital business plan in order, and focus it to several VC firms. You could be in the enviable position of getting them to bid against each other.