Google, Mozilla extend search box deal

That little Google search box in the upper right part of your Firefox browser will be sticking around through 2011, according to Mozilla.

We’ve just renewed our agreement with Google for an additional three years. This agreement now ends in November of 2011 rather than November of 2008, so we have stability in income. We’re also learning more all the time about how to use Mozilla’s financial resources to help contributors through infrastructure, new programs, and new types of support from employees.

"Stability in income" is putting it mildly. That little search box in Firefox basically bankrolls Mozilla. In 2006, Mozilla had $66.8 million in revenue, up from $52.9 million in 2005. The 2007 figures should land some time in the fall. The revenue from Google has enabled Mozilla to build a portfolio to fund itself on an ongoing basis.