Startpage

Leading privacy-focused search engine alternative

Startpage is a privacy-oriented search engine that positions itself as 'the world's most private search engine.' Founded in the Netherlands, the company delivers Google search results to users without tracking their searches, storing personal information, or creating user profiles. Startpage acts as an intermediary between users and Google, anonymizing search queries and removing tracking elements. While not a traditional AdTech company, Startpage operates in the digital advertising ecosystem by offering privacy-respecting search advertising. The company generates revenue through non-tracking ads displayed alongside search results, where ads are based solely on the search query itself rather than user behavior or personal data. This positions Startpage as an alternative for privacy-conscious users and aligns with growing regulatory pressures around data privacy like GDPR and CCPA. Startpage has gained traction among users concerned about online privacy and data collection, particularly in Europe where privacy regulations are stringent. The company also offers additional privacy tools including a proxy service for anonymous browsing and has partnerships with privacy-focused browsers and organizations.