Amazon has recently announced its AWS AI Accelerator program which is designed to help early-stage startups to explore the exciting opportunites of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI). With this program, ten startups around the globe will have the chance to have access to machine learning models, tools, stack optimization, and custom go-to-market advice. These startups will also receive up to $300,000 in AWS credits to build their projects. AWS is mainly looking for startups that have a minimum viable product, are working on product value propositions, and already building on AWS.
Rob Ferguson, the Global Head of AI/ML Startups at Amazon, explained the motivation behind this program: “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.”
This move by Amazon is especially timely considering the industry has seen a significant shift in how AI and ML are used. Generative AI is paving the way for new levels of creativity and innovation, and Amazon is providing entrepreneurs the opportunity to be part of it. Anyone interested in applying for the program can do so over the next two weeks and then get ready for the Virtual Demo Day in San Francisco at the end of the 10-week program.
Howard Wright, AWS’ Global Head of Startups, further elaborated on what the program offers: “Generative AI technology has the potential to unlock even greater advances and unleash new levels of creativity. 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.”
Amazon is no stranger to the world of AI and ML. This is their first foray into the world of accelerator programs, having launched a conversational AI program in 2016, and they’re hoping to make a meaningful difference in the industry with this Generative AI program. Through this, Amazon Web Services is demonstrating its commitment to aiding smaller businesses and facilitating the rise of innovation.
