Empowering Diversity in Tech: Google Conference Scholarships for the Asia Pacific Region
The Google Conference Scholarships – Asia Pacific program is a transformative initiative aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion within the technology industry by enabling underrepresented groups to attend prestigious tech conferences across the Asia Pacific region. By providing financial support, Google ensures that talent from various backgrounds, including women, students, and individuals from marginalized communities, can participate in global events and gain access to networking, learning, and professional development opportunities that can shape their careers.
What the Google Conference Scholarship Covers
The Google Conference Scholarships are not just about attending events — they represent a complete financial support package that covers the full cost of conference participation. The scholarship typically includes:
- Full registration or conference ticket fees
- Reimbursement for travel expenses, including flights or local transport
- Hotel accommodation for the duration of the conference
- Per diem allowance for food and incidental costs
- Visa and travel insurance fees (where applicable)
Each award is tailored to the specific needs of the recipient and the nature of the conference, ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience that allows the scholar to focus on maximizing learning and professional growth.
Who is Eligible for the Google Conference Scholarship?
Google’s vision for the scholarship is centered on fostering diversity and equity in tech. The scholarship is open to individuals from underrepresented groups in tech who meet the following criteria:
- Be currently studying or working in a technical field such as computer science, software engineering, IT, AI, data science, cybersecurity, etc.
- Identify as part of an underrepresented group in tech, such as women, individuals from rural areas, ethnic minorities, or persons with disabilities.
- Be a resident of a country in the Asia Pacific region, such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Nepal, Thailand, Malaysia, and others.
- Demonstrate a genuine interest in the tech industry and how attending the chosen conference will benefit their career.
- Be able to provide documentation of acceptance or invitation to a recognized technology-related conference supported by Google.
Eligible Conferences Supported by Google in Asia Pacific
Google Conference Scholarships support attendance at some of the most prominent technology events in the region, enabling scholars to gain insights into the latest innovations, tools, and industry trends. These conferences include but are not limited to:
- Google Developer Days (GDD)
- Women Who Code CONNECT Asia
- PyCon Asia-Pacific
- JSConf Asia
- FOSSASIA Summit
- Grace Hopper Celebration India
- DevFest events organized by Google Developer Groups (GDGs)
- Open Source Summit Asia
- AI and Machine Learning Conferences hosted by major institutions and communities
Each of these conferences provides a unique platform for networking, skill development, and interaction with global tech leaders.
How to Apply for the Google Conference Scholarship – Asia Pacific
Applying for the Google Conference Scholarship involves a thorough and transparent application process designed to identify the most passionate and deserving candidates.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Identify the conference you would like to attend and ensure it is supported by Google’s scholarship initiative.
- Apply to the conference and receive confirmation of acceptance or invitation to attend.
- Complete the Google Conference Scholarship application form available on the official Google scholarships page.
- Provide detailed personal information, including educational and professional background.
- Submit a motivation letter or personal statement explaining your interest in the conference, how your background aligns with diversity goals, and how attending the event will contribute to your personal and professional development.
- Attach supporting documents, such as:
- Résumé or CV
- Conference invitation or registration confirmation
- Academic transcripts (if a student)
- Proof of identity and residency
- Recommendation letters (if applicable)
- Submit the completed application before the stated deadline.
Important Application Deadlines
While deadlines vary depending on the specific conference and its schedule, Google typically requires applications to be submitted at least 3 to 4 months before the event date. Early applications are strongly encouraged due to limited slots and high demand.
Selection Criteria for the Scholarship
Selection is based on a combination of merit, potential impact, and commitment to promoting diversity in tech. Google looks for:
- Strong academic or professional background in tech-related fields
- Demonstrated leadership qualities and community involvement
- Clear alignment with the goals of diversity and inclusion
- Potential to contribute to the local or global tech ecosystem
- Passion for technology and personal development
Google prioritizes individuals who have not previously received the scholarship and are attending their first international tech conference.
Benefits of Attending Tech Conferences with Google Support
Attending a tech conference through the Google Conference Scholarship offers more than just financial aid — it provides a life-changing experience that includes:
- Direct access to tech industry leaders and mentors
- Opportunities to present work or research to global audiences
- Workshops, hackathons, and product demos led by top engineers
- Hands-on experience with new tools, platforms, and frameworks
- Exposure to potential recruiters, employers, and collaborators
- Membership in a growing alumni network of Google scholarship recipients
These benefits collectively contribute to long-term career acceleration, increased confidence, and a stronger presence in the tech community.
Voices of Past Scholars: Impact Stories from Asia Pacific
Thousands of scholars from the Asia Pacific have benefited from this program. For example:
- A student from Indonesia, who attended PyCon Asia-Pacific, was later invited to contribute to an international open-source project.
- A young woman from India, supported to attend the Grace Hopper Celebration, secured a mentorship opportunity that led to an internship at a top tech firm.
- A developer from rural Vietnam, after participating in DevFest, launched a local tech hub providing coding workshops for youth in underserved communities.
These stories are a testament to how access and opportunity can spark transformational change not just for individuals but for entire communities.
Google’s Broader Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
The Google Conference Scholarships are part of a larger ecosystem of support that includes programs like:
- Google Women Techmakers
- Google Developer Student Clubs (GDSC)
- Google AI Residency Program
- Google for Startups Accelerator
- Google Research Fellowships
Through these initiatives, Google aims to create an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of background, has equal opportunity to participate and thrive in the digital economy.
How to Maximize Your Conference Experience
To make the most of your Google-sponsored tech conference:
- Network actively — talk to fellow attendees, speakers, and company reps
- Prepare ahead by researching sessions, speakers, and exhibitors
- Engage in workshops and hackathons to gain practical skills
- Follow up with connections made during the event
- Document your experience and share it on platforms like LinkedIn or personal blogs
- Apply your learnings by organizing local events or workshops back home
Conclusion
The Google Conference Scholarships – Asia Pacific represent a rare and empowering opportunity for emerging tech talents across the region. By bridging the gap between ambition and access, Google ensures that the next generation of developers, engineers, and leaders can rise
