Google Added New Tools For SMBs
Google has announced an additional $200 million in ad grants to support non-profits as they deal with the expanded impacts of COVID-19. While it’s also adding a range of new tools to help SMBs (Short and Midsize Business) make better use of Google’s promotion and AD options to maximize reach and exposure.
First off is the expansion of Google’s Ad Grants program, with an extra $200 million being allocated for non-profit organizations, taking the total available Ad Grants funding to $1 billion. The firm typically provides $800 million in ad grants for nonprofits every year.
Local Services By Google
It’s also adding new features to its platforms, such as a tool that lets users search and book local services on Google through its Local Services Ads offering. The feature is currently only available in the U.S. and Canada, but Google plans on expanding it internationally.
The option will streamline the connection process, direct from Google search. This could make getting that top search result even more important for local service businesses.
Google’s also adding new notifiers in its Shopping tab listings which will show local store information including; product availability, locations, and fulfillment options like delivery and curbside pickup.
Google added similar listings to Google My Business profiles last month, but users will now also be able to get the same context within the Shopping tab display.
Google’s also giving US businesses access to ‘Grow My Store‘, which has been available in Europe for some time. With Grow My Store, businesses can enter their eCommerce business URL and get a custom report on key trends, and pointers on how they can improve (with a full report available with email sign-up).
And lastly, Google has also expanded its Smart Campaigns option to 150 countries and is now looking to make it easier and faster to sign-up using the Google Ads app. And starting today, you can use Smart campaigns to display a prominent, square-shaped Google Maps pin with your business category logo, highlighting specific services that you offer, like curbside pickup or delivery.
The new Promoted pins for Smart campaigns are available for free through the end of September.
Wrapping Up
For all businesses, Google remains a key connector, and it’s worth taking note of the various options on offer to help maximize your digital opportunities. As Instagram looks to make eCommerce more of an emphasis. So, it’s tested a range of new, in-stream shopping tools, including Shops and the expansion of shopping tags.
Instagram has launched shopping tags in post caption, Checkout here.
