Amazon has announced its latest accelerator program, aimed at generative artificial intelligence startups worldwide. This new program comes seven years after Amazon’s first accelerator program, which focused on conversational AI back in 2016. Led by Amazon Web Services (AWS), this latest program is designed to help early-stage startups build and launch their generative AI solutions.
The current AI boom is a boon to cloud computing providers, as their services are essential for the development and operation of this buzzy tech. AWS, as a leading cloud computing provider, recognizes the potential of generative AI and is investing in startups that can bring innovative solutions to market. The 10-week program offers access to AI models and tools, machine learning stack optimization, custom go-to-market advice, and a Demo Day in San Francisco.
Startups that are part of the cohort can expect to receive up to $300,000 in AWS credits, which they can use to further develop their products and services by leveraging the company’s infrastructure. This is a significant investment, as it can help these startups overcome the financial barriers of building and launching their products.
How to join the program?
To be eligible to participate in the initiative, startups should have a “minimum viable product (MVP).” This is considered a relatively developed prototype with some basic features and functionalities that can already attract customers’ interest. These early versions of the product can be used to get feedback from end consumers to ultimately come up with a beta version.
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Amazon is making the workshop available to all startups regardless of their location, and applications will be accepted until April 17th. This open approach reflects Amazon’s commitment to democratizing access to technology and innovation. The company believes that great ideas can come from anywhere and anyone, and it is committed to supporting promising startups that can bring these ideas to fruition.
As for why Amazon is launching this accelerator program now, the answer is simple: generative AI has unlocked new developments and creativity. “Artificial intelligence and machine learning are some of the most transformative technologies of our generation and have been a main focus area for Amazon for more than 20 years… [we’re] excited about what next big thing we can help power through the cloud,” said Rob Ferguson, AWS’ Global Head of AI/ML Startups, in a statement to TechCrunch.
“Our approach to generative AI is to invest and innovate across three layers of the generative AI stack to take this technology out of the realm of research and make it available to customers of any size and developers of all skill levels,” he added. This approach highlights Amazon’s commitment to making cutting-edge technology accessible to all, regardless of their technical expertise or financial resources.
This content was originally published here.
